Sofa mechanism repair: preparation, steps and tips

Alas, even high-quality upholstered furniture, after a number of years of intensive use, can become uncomfortable and unsightly. Only in terms of cost, it is not cheap, in this regard, the repair of sofas is a very hot topic. It can be done both with the help of professionals and on your own at home. Actually, we'll talk about how to repair the sofa transformation mechanism with your own hands, and we'll talk in this article.

Repair begins with disassembly. In the course of work, it is advisable to take a snapshot of each step so that during assembly you can see if everything is being done correctly. Sequence of operations.

1. Removing the armrests. They are attached to the structure by means of bolts on the sides of the wooden frame. To make them accessible, the seat is lifted or pulled out (based on the structure of the sofa), then the fasteners are unscrewed with keys of a suitable size.
2. Then you need to dismantle the remaining parts of the sofa so that only the frame remains. All parts of the seat and backrest are either bolted or freely located in the grooves.
3. Dismantling the transformation mechanism. It is fixed to the longitudinal side surface of the frame, back support and seat. Using a screwdriver or Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the fasteners.
4. Removing the seat with backrest... Both parts are mated with each other by a transformation mechanism. After dismantling it, it is very easy to separate them from each other and disconnect from the frame. In some modifications, the backrest is screwed to the frame, in which case it is necessary to remove the screws holding it.

Thus, we got to the mechanism of interest to us. Now you can find out the reason for its failure, assess the degree of damage and start correcting the defect.

First of all, get your instrument ready so that everything is at hand. You may need the following accessories:

• flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
• set of open-end wrenches for 12/14 and 8/10;
• pliers;
• furniture stapler with staples 10 and 16 mm;
• hammer, plumber's knife and scissors;
• self-tapping screws 35-45 mm;
• an electric drill with a set of drills or a screwdriver;
• technical oil or other lubricant.

The most common sliding mechanism. Its relevance is associated with practicality and low cost of execution. It is named so thanks to the way the section is rolled out for organizing a berth. Includes casters on an additional section, guides with a fixing bracket on the body. In addition, there is a lifting device or an extra leg. Frequent defects - slowing down or jamming of the section, creaking when rolling out. It is solved by changing the wheels and guides. The fixation in the “bed” state also fails. In such a situation, repair of the retaining bracket is necessary.

It has been known since the times of the USSR and is now considered obsolete. As a result, it is difficult to find details for this mechanism. Loose fasteners to the support structure bar are often to blame. When these are bolts, then they can simply be tightened by first substituting additional washers. If the fixing mechanism is attached to the bar by means of screws, then:

• they are replaced with analogs of a larger diameter;
• make through holes in the timber and use bolts;
• reduce the diameter of the holes by means of wooden chops.

Much less often, loosening of rivets directly on the mechanism for fixing the positions of the book becomes a factor in the failure of the folding mechanism. As a result of examining the removed mechanism, even a layman becomes clear about the scale of its wear.

Based on the situation, rivets:

• compact;
• put new ones;
• if design permits, swap out for matching flat head bolts.

Sometimes the sofa does not spread out due to the fault of a foreign object caught in the mechanism. This usually happens in systems equipped with springs. This problem is solved simply - it is only necessary to eliminate the pollution, and the sofa begins to function normally.

Factory defect is often the reason for the use of great efforts when transforming furniture. As a result, the rods may bend. They are leveled with a simple hammer.

In modern versions, a rocking mechanism with springs is practiced. It is the most durable. However, if damaged, a complete replacement is required.

The most modern transformation mechanism for mass samples of upholstered furniture. This name is associated with the sound of transformation. In appearance it is similar to the folding mechanism of the "book". Only in it is practiced specific folding mechanism without wheels. Since the perfect adjustment of all the moving elements of the mechanism cannot be carried out at home, it is safer to replace the device completely.

It has three positions. Unfolding and fixing is carried out by means of locks and moving axles... To dismantle, you only need a 10 open-end wrench. The locks themselves are similar to clamps, in which there is no bolt for the tie.

Frequent malfunctions are identical with malfunctions of a sofa-book. It is required to lubricate all components from time to time. More on this in the next video.

The so-called "French" mechanisms for folding sofas are varied, as well as their malfunctions.

First, find out what exactly is out of order in the mechanism and what needs to be repaired.

1. Breaking rivets (they connect the moving parts of the mechanism) the transformation mechanism. In such a situation, you can install a screw or an M8 threaded bolt instead of rivets. Someone uses an M6 bolt. This is a misconception, since a significant backlash appears between the element hole and the bolt, which disturbs the shape of the supporting structure of the folding sofa.
2. Old rivets it is necessary to drill with an electric drill and a drill for metal.
3. Then picks up bolt of sufficient diameter and length.
4. Into the hole into place the rivet is inserted into the bolt and the nut is tightened. When several rivets become unusable at once, all are replaced.
5. In case of breakage of the supporting leg of the "clamshell" mechanism, only a complete replacement will help, renovation here is not a valid option.

And in conclusion, a few useful tips.

• Don't even try to swap one type of transform mechanism for another.... The use of different algorithms of functioning determines not only discrepancies in components, but also in the purpose of parts.
• Chipboard more difficult to restore than wood.
• If the supporting steel component is bent, change it immediately and do not try to straighten it. The structure of iron will not withstand prolonged loads and is deformed again.
• Backlash in the support structure leads to failure not only of wood parts, but also of the wheels and guides. In addition, the resulting friction damages the drapery.
• Grease should be applied exclusively to cleaned surfaces.
• Do not overtighten the fasteners.
• Allen keys must be of high quality. Broken edges will suspend work for a long time.
• To remove corrosion WD-40 can be used with moving elements.
• Don't ignore washer installation for bolts and axles.
• You can not make wood slabs or cladding on your own, but simply place an order in the furniture showroom.
• For any kind of renovation work invite an assistant... This will make work easier and safer.