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Office Chair Base Replacement

Admin October 09, 2026

The replacement of an office chair base can be carried out according to the following steps:

Preparation Before Replacement

  • Tool Preparation: Prepare a Phillips/flat-head screwdriver, a rubber or plastic mallet, an adjustable or open-end wrench, a cloth, and if the screws are rusty, have a loosening agent (such as WD-40) or rust remover on hand.
  • New Part Selection and Confirmation: The base trays of computer chairs are not universally compatible. Measure the hole spacing (the center distance between the several screw holes on the tray used to secure the chair seat, commonly seen as 14cm*17.5cm) and the center hole diameter (the hole diameter for connecting the gas lift) from the old tray. Take clear photos of the old tray (including the screw hole positions and the center hole) and consult with the merchant along with the measurement data to confirm compatibility. When selecting, prioritize reinforced trays made of steel with a thickness of 3.0mm or more.
  • Safety and Environment Preparation: Clear a flat and spacious work area, lay down soft padding (such as cardboard or old towels) on the ground, wear protective gloves during operation, and ensure that the chair's gas lift is in the lowest, non-adjustable position.

Detailed Disassembly Steps

  • Flip the Chair and Remove the Five-Star Base (Wheels): Turn the computer chair upside down on the padded ground, and simply pull upwards with force on the casters on the five-star base to remove all the wheels.
  • Separate the Five-Star Base from the Gas Lift: The five-star base is usually tightly connected to the gas lift through interference fit or snaps. Use a rubber mallet to evenly tap around the connection between the center steel ring of the five-star base and the gas lift. After tapping, try to pry the five-star base loose with your hands. Repeat the process of 'tapping - prying' until the two are separated.
  • Remove the Screws Securing the Chair Seat to the Tray: The chair seat (seat panel) is connected to the tray with screws. Use an appropriate screwdriver to remove this circle of fixing screws (usually 4). After removal, the chair seat and the tray (including the gas lift) can be separated. It is recommended to keep the screws safe.
  • Separate the Gas Lift from the Old Tray: This is the most difficult step. If the gas lift is tightly connected, you can apply lubricant and let it sit for a while before disassembly.

Precautions: During disassembly, prioritize safety, always wear gloves, be cautious when using tools to avoid injury; protect the appearance to avoid scratches or damage to the chair; disassemble in an orderly manner to avoid losing or mixing up parts; if encountering complex structures or difficulty in disassembly, it is recommended to seek professional assistance to ensure safety.