How to Separate Office Chairs

The separation of office chairs requires targeted methods for different components, with specific steps as follows:

1. Separating the Backrest and Seat
Most backrests are fixed to the seat with screws. First, locate the screws at the connection point (usually located beneath or on the side of the backrest). Use a screwdriver of the corresponding size (such as a Phillips or flat-head) to loosen the screws counterclockwise. Once the screws are fully removed, gently lift the backrest upward to separate it. If the screws are rusted or stuck, a small amount of lubricant (such as WD-40) can be sprayed to assist in loosening. Do not forcefully pry to avoid damaging the backrest or seat structure.

2. Separating the Seat and Gas Lift

• Method 1: Lever Adjustment Method
  Raise the gas lift to its highest position. Hold the seat steady with one hand while continuously pressing the height adjustment lever with the other hand, and gently rock the seat side to side. Through repeated pressing and rocking, the connection between the gas lift and the seat will gradually loosen, and the entire assembly can eventually be removed. This method is suitable for gas lifts that are not severely stuck.
• Method 2: Rubber Mallet Tapping Method
  Turn the chair upside down (with the feet pointing upward) and gently tap the side of the connection between the seat and the gas lift with a rubber mallet. Tap evenly and avoid directly tapping the top of the gas lift (which may damage the internal seals). If the connection is too tight, place a piece of soft wood to increase the contact area. Do not use a metal hammer to prevent scratching the surface of the components.

3. Separating the Gas Lift and Chair Base
Place the chair base upside down and tap outward from the center of the bottom of the gas lift with a rubber mallet. If the connection between the gas lift and the chair base is too tight, insert a thin plastic sheet (such as a credit card) into the gap between the gas lift and the chair base as a prying point, and gradually separate them by tapping. If a rubber mallet is not available, place a piece of wood at the bottom of the gas lift before tapping to avoid direct impact that could deform the gas lift or break the chair base.

4. Separating the Armrests
Armrests are usually fixed to the sides of the seat with hex screws. Use a hex wrench of the corresponding size to loosen the screws counterclockwise. Once the screws are fully removed, the armrests can be lifted upward to separate them. If the screws are hidden inside the armrest covers, first remove the covers (some are designed with snaps) before proceeding. Be cautious when separating, as the armrests may have electrical wires connected inside (such as in chairs with massage functions). Disconnect the power in advance or take photos to record the wire positions.

5. Separating the Headrest
If the headrest is of a slip-on design, simply lift it upward to remove it. If it is fixed with screws (usually located at the connection between the headrest and the backrest), use a screwdriver to loosen the screws before separating it. Before operating, confirm whether the headrest is removable, as some integrated headrests cannot be separated.

Safety Tips:

• Clear the surrounding area before separation to prevent components from falling and injuring people or damaging the floor.
• If excessive resistance is encountered, the screws are stripped, or the components are deformed, stop the operation immediately and contact a professional repair technician to prevent further damage caused by forced disassembly.
• After separation, keep small parts such as screws properly to avoid loss and ensure smooth reassembly later.