Office Chair Tray Repair

Office chair tray repair can be carried out following these steps:

I. Safety Inspection and Preliminary Observation
Place the chair in a flat, unloaded state. Visually inspect key parts of the tray (such as connection points, sliding grooves, and buckles) for cracks, deformation, or detached components. Shake the seat by hand to determine the source of the shaking (e.g., loose screws, worn components, or issues with the gas lift). If the lifting function is normal and the shaking is concentrated at the connection points, the problem is likely at the tray interface; if accompanied by lifting failure or slow sinking, prioritize checking the gas lift.

II. In-Depth Cause Diagnosis

1. Loose Mechanical Connections: Prolonged use may cause the screws connecting the seat cushion to the tray and the tray to the five-star base to loosen.
2. Worn Nylon Sliding Grooves/Plastic Buckles: The sliding grooves controlling the tilt angle or the fixed buckles may become white and brittle due to long-term friction, leading to increased gaps.
3. Aged Interface Components: The metal clips or inner plastic sleeves at the interface between the gas lift and the tray may wear out or loosen.
4. Distinguishing Gas Lift Issues: If the lifting function is normal, the problem is concentrated at the tray interface; if the lifting function is abnormal, the gas lift needs to be replaced.

III. Targeted Repair Operations

1. Screw Tightening: Use a screwdriver or wrench to tighten all visible connecting screws one by one. If the screw holes are stripped, wrap Teflon tape around the screws to increase friction, or replace them with larger screws/use thread repair tools.
2. Replacement of Worn Parts: Purchase corresponding models of nylon sliding grooves, plastic buckles, or interface plastic sleeves online or from the manufacturer for replacement.
3. Overall Tray Replacement: If the metal structure is severely deformed or worn and cannot be repaired, purchase a new tray of the same model or a universal model. When selecting, measure the hole spacing (e.g., 14cm*17.5cm) and center hole diameter of the old tray, take clear photos to consult the merchant for compatibility, and prioritize choosing a reinforced steel tray with a thickness of ≥3.0mm.

IV. Handling Special Situations and Preparations

1. Tool Preparation: Cross/flat-head screwdrivers, rubber mallet, adjustable wrench, cloth, and penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40) for rusted screws.
2. Safety and Environment: Clear a flat work area, lay down soft pads to prevent scratches, wear protective gloves during operation, and ensure the gas lift is at its lowest position.
3. Disassembly Steps:
   • Flip the chair over and remove all wheels;
   • Use a rubber mallet to strike the center steel ring of the five-star base where it connects to the gas lift to separate the two;
   • Remove the screws (usually 4) securing the seat to the tray and separate the seat;
   • Invert the chair and use a rubber mallet to strike the bottom of the chassis to separate the gas lift from the old tray (if there is an issue with the gas lift, strike the bottom side with a hammer, avoiding the middle buckle).