Introduction
This manual provides instructions for the FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring. This spring is designed as a replacement part for various recliner mechanisms, including those from RMT, Cenro, and Leggett & Platt. Proper installation ensures the smooth and correct operation of your recliner's mechanism.
Product Overview
Key Features:
- Total Length: 6 inches
- Coil Count: 46 coils
- Hook Design: Offset hooks (one 2 inches long, one 0.6 inches short)
- Hook Coating: Black plastic for durability
- Interior: Black foam for wire gauge indication, stiffness, and sound dampening
Compatibility:
This extension spring is commonly used on zero-wall recliner mechanisms. It is compatible with models such as the RMT 35801, Cenro, and Leggett & Platt 4318 and 4302. It may also be suitable for other zero-wall recliner mechanisms with similar spring specifications.
Physical Characteristics:
The spring is constructed from durable spring steel, measuring 6 inches from end to end. It features 46 tightly wound coils. The unique offset hook design ensures proper fitment into specific recliner mechanisms, with one hook extending 2 inches and the other 0.6 inches. Both hooks are coated with a black plastic material to reduce wear and friction. A black foam insert within the spring serves to indicate wire gauge, contribute to stiffness, and provide sound dampening during operation.
An image showing the FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring. The spring is metallic with a black plastic coating on its offset hooks. A black foam interior is visible, indicating its design for sound dampening and specific wire gauge.
Installation Instructions
Safety Precautions:
- Always ensure the recliner is stable and cannot tip over during installation.
- If the recliner is electric, disconnect it from the power source.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and work gloves, to prevent injury from sudden spring release or sharp edges.
Tools Required:
- Pliers (needle-nose or standard)
- Spring puller tool (highly recommended for easier and safer installation)
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Identify the Old Spring: Locate the broken or worn extension spring on your recliner mechanism. Observe its exact position and how it is attached to the mechanism's anchor points. Taking a photograph before removal can be helpful.
- Remove the Old Spring: Carefully unhook the old spring from its attachment points. Use pliers or a spring puller tool to manage the tension. Exercise caution, as springs can release tension abruptly.
- Verify Replacement: Compare the new FR extension spring with the old one. Confirm that the length, coil count, and especially the offset hook orientation match the original spring.
- Position the New Spring: Align the new spring with the designated attachment points on the recliner mechanism. Ensure the offset hooks are correctly oriented to engage with the anchor points.
- Attach First Hook: Securely attach one of the new spring's hooks to its corresponding anchor point on the recliner mechanism.
- Attach Second Hook: Using pliers or a spring puller tool, carefully stretch the spring to attach the second hook to its anchor point. Ensure both hooks are fully and securely seated. Avoid overstretching the spring.
- Test Operation: Gently operate the recliner mechanism to confirm that the new spring is functioning correctly. The footrest and backrest should extend and retract smoothly without binding or unusual noises.
- Reassemble: Reattach any components of the recliner that were removed or loosened during the installation process.
Operation
The FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring is a functional component designed to assist in the mechanical operation of your recliner. Once correctly installed, the spring works in conjunction with the recliner's linkage system to facilitate the smooth extension and retraction of the footrest and backrest. The spring itself does not require direct user operation; its function is integrated into the recliner's overall mechanism. Simply operate your recliner as intended, and the spring will perform its role in the movement.
Maintenance
The FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring is manufactured for durability and long-term performance. Specific maintenance for the spring itself is generally not required. However, to ensure the longevity of your recliner and its components, consider the following general maintenance practices:
- Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the spring and the surrounding recliner mechanism for any signs of wear, corrosion, deformation, or damage. Early detection of issues can prevent further problems.
- Keep Clean: Ensure the recliner mechanism, including the area around the spring, remains clean and free of dust, lint, pet hair, or other debris that could interfere with its movement.
- Avoid Excessive Force: Operate your recliner gently and avoid using excessive force when extending or retracting. Harsh treatment can prematurely wear out springs and other mechanical components.
- Lubrication (Mechanism): While the spring itself does not typically require lubrication, other pivot points and moving parts of the recliner mechanism may benefit from occasional lubrication with a suitable furniture-grade lubricant. Consult your recliner's original manual for specific lubrication recommendations.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installing the FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
Issue: Recliner mechanism not extending or retracting smoothly.
- Possible Cause: The new spring is incorrectly installed or not fully seated on its anchor points.
Solution: Carefully re-examine the installation steps. Ensure both hooks of the spring are securely attached and that the spring is correctly oriented within the mechanism. - Possible Cause: Other components of the recliner mechanism are damaged, bent, or seized.
Solution: Inspect other moving parts, linkages, and pivot points of the recliner. This spring is a replacement for a specific component; other mechanical issues may require different repairs or replacement parts.
Issue: Audible squeaking or grinding from the mechanism.
- Possible Cause: The spring is rubbing against another component, or other parts of the mechanism require lubrication.
Solution: Verify that the spring is not making direct contact with other metal parts of the recliner mechanism. While the spring has a foam interior for sound dampening, external friction can still occur. Apply a suitable lubricant to other pivot points and moving parts of the recliner mechanism, avoiding direct application to the spring itself unless specified by the recliner manufacturer.
Specifications
- Product Type: Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring
- Brand: FR
- Total Length: 6 inches
- Coil Count: 46 coils
- Long Hook Length: 2 inches
- Short Hook Length: 0.6 inches
- Hook Orientation: Offset
- Hook Coating: Black plastic
- Interior: Black foam (for wire gauge, stiffness, and sound dampening)
- Primary Compatibility: RMT, Cenro, Leggett & Platt zero-wall recliner mechanisms (e.g., RMT 35801, Leggett & Platt 4318, 4302)
- Material: Spring steel (inferred), Plastic (for coating), Foam (for interior)
- ASIN: B0C3WQBPN1
- GTIN/UPC: 753577031464
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your FR Recliner Mechanism Extension Spring, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact the seller directly. For general product inquiries or technical support, you may visit the official FR Store online.
Online Support: Visit the FR Store