Troubleshooting the La-z-boy 3-Position Footrest Feature 

@reclinerrepairguy any recommendations for a recliner, that no longer stays locked in the reclined position? It rocks when the footrest is extended. This occurred after my 3 year old thought it a good idea to jump off the extended footrest.

If you could please tell me how I can adjust my legs were they won't raise I would appreciate it please please send me a message thank you

@c.danjou.1696 - Good job!

@XanderJudd24 - You're welcome -- good job!

@jrchefcentral - You're welcome -- good job!

@pops ravendish - You're welcome!

@Mary Mclvor - Congrats!

@Joy Rimpau - Congrats! Disconnecting the older 3-position mechanisms is a prime example of knowing a few simple steps, rather than being highly-skilled or trained in order to perform the required fix. Good job!

Imagonna - You're welcome!

@EmiRee14 - You're welcome!

@William Perry - You're welcome!

Tina Hatfield - You're welcome -- I'm glad the video helped you!

@Asvaldrz - You're welcome!

@Dave Killion -- Those shoulder bolts are no longer available. They're been replaced with plastic Legrest Swing Bushings that are fastened to the Leg Extensions using Truss Head Screws. Learn more by watching the video 'Installing Legrest Swing Bushings' at the ReclinerRepairGuy.com website. And by the way, check to make sure that the round opening in the Rear Swings -- that holds these bushings -- is not elongated from wear. If it's no longer perfectly round, the Rear Swings should be replaced as well. That would be covered in the 'Drive Rod' 3-part video series, also on the website.

Thanks for the tips, @@reclinerrepairguy4155 . These are not shoulder bolts. I have found La-Z-Boy compatible metal mechanism bolts that look like they will work. recliner-handles.com/replacement-metal-mechanism-bolt-la-z-boy-compatible/

@Steve Neil - You're welcome!

@jmlinne - You're welcome!

@Lynn Dolphin - Good job! The spacer that fits on the Drive Rod -- if that's the one you're referring to -- goes between the 2 Lock Plates (gear-like looking parts).

@CHRIS NAIDOO - You're welcome!

@Go-go_Godzilla - You're welcome!

@Brian King - You're welcome. Easy fixes are the best kind!

@NeverMetTheGuy - I just placed a La-z-boy part order that included Pivot Pins. I want to see if they might be available again. Check with your local La-z-boy dealer to see if they may have some left in stock. "Upgrade" was a poor choice of words, "convert" would have been better. I have to say though, that I do recommend the conversion for those who use the 3-position feature heavily. The plastic clips are easier to swap out, typically last a long time and are cheaper to replace.

@NeverMetTheGuy - I was able to get the Pivot Pins I ordered. If you've not tried to order them yet, give it a shot!

@Terry Knights - You're welcome!

@Ronald Kruml - You're welcome!

@Connor Cochran - You're welcome!

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 yessir reply from the man himself!!!

@Drew Gauley - You're welcome!

@Brent Hebert - I've seen some older La-z-boy's develop this issue as they age. It's not a problem unless the footrest is closing when you don't want it to. If that's the case, it can be due to a few different causes. If you can't identify the problem, hire a repair tech to help you out.

@stephenrasdahl1578 - You're welcome -- great tip!

@jojeeplvr - You're welcome - good job!

Nelson Brunanski - You're welcome -- I'm glad the info helped you out!

@Kathleen McCarthy - Actually, you saved your chair -- congrats! :)

@Lorenzo Cole - You're welcome!

@CW2TRH - You're welcome!

@Lil GoGo - You're welcome!

Heather Lanoue - They are available thru La-z-boy (or one of their dealers). Since you're not the original owner, you won't have a parts warranty, but you can still order and pay for those parts.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 ok I will look, do they have a specific name that I can look for? Thank you for your time.

@Mark Kloth - You're welcome!

@EdCatlett - The Ratcheting Recline tips (pitches) the entire chair back. It's separate from the 3-Position Footrest function. The Back tilt is yet another separate function, independent of the other two. (See the 3-Position Footrest & Back Tilt Tension videos to learn more.) Disconnecting the 3-Position function will not stop the Ratcheting Recline (or back tilt) from working, if it was working properly to begin with. However, you may have to use the chair a bit differently to engage the ratcheting feature. For example, if the chair is slumping forward when the footrest is fully extended, you'll need to move your weight back in the chair to engage the Ratcheting Recline. 2 ways to do that: #1 If you have long legs, move 1 leg off the extended footrest & onto the floor & push back to engage the ratchet. Or push back against the arms. Or, #2 Do not sit or lean forward when opening the footrest. But rather throw your shoulders back a bit when opening the footrest to engage the ratcheting recline. If none of these suggestions help, find an experienced repair tech to troubleshoot the problem.

@Marty Tobias - I don't have a photo to send you at the moment. Contact me through my email address -- pete@reclinerrepairguy.com -- and I'll try to send a photo when I'm back in the shop.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank You Sir.

Rebecca McDowell - Sounds like a lift motor may have failed. If you're a DIYer, checkout Troubleshooting Electric Recliners --> reclinerrepairguy.com/general_repairs.htm#troubleshootelectric If not, contact your La-z-boy dealer and have them check it out.

Lex Conor - The noise you hear is the Ratcheting Recliner feature disengaging, and that is normal. You've figured out how to avoid making this noise by relieving the pressure on the parts before disengaging (using the handle to lower the footrest). Another method some people use is to place one foot on the floor (if your legs are long enough) and push back just before lowering the footrest. To learn more about the Ratcheting Recline Feature, see this video ----> reclinerrepairguy.com/lazyboy.htm#ratchetrecline

@danielnemschick3988 - Coming soon!

@Scoobydoonut - It sounds like your Ratcheting Recline parts may be worn and need replaced. See this video ---> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-d8Bk2j4dc-k.html

Stan - I haven't done a video on the rollers (Bearing Link Subassemblies) yet. They come with a plastic cover over the steel wheels for quiet operation. Over time, the covers will crack, split and eventually start falling off. This can make operation noisy and/or rough. Since the covers are not available separately, the entire Bearing Link Subassembly has to be replaced. Having said that, you can try this first: Remove the plastic plugs on the end of the base tracks (where the rollers travel). Clean out all the dirt and crud that accumulates in the track and causes rough, uneven operation. Also, remove any remaining bits of the plastic covers from all the rollers (if any cover is completely intact, leave it on). This should solve the rough operation problems. However, the missing covers allow the steel wheels to make contact with the steel base, which can be noisy. The only solution for that is to replace the Bearing Link Subs with new ones that will come with the covers installed.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you very much. I am going to try cleaning out the tracks. You are right that it makes the operation noisy. I might try to replace those bearings (Bearing Link Subs) later as you mentioned. I will try this first and see. Thanks again

Gail Angeluski - To add padding to the lumber area of the inside back, see this video --> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-PfjpZzTXPBo.html. It will show you what type of padding to use & how to fit it properly. If you don't have the 3-pillow back configuration shown in the video, you'll have to loosen the outside back panel to access the back of the lumbar area. Next, cut open the lumbar compartment from the backside. Install padding as needed. Then sew or staple the compartment shut & finish by reattaching the outside back panel.

I'm suresh Hosamani I'm laz boy wark bost

Btw, I'm a woman, and not too mechanically inclined.

JSG II... God, Guns & Liberty - Yes! ----> reclinerrepairguy.com/lazyboy.htm#lazy3position

@Lona Ockenden - The Pivot Pins don't need to be replaced unless they have obvious gouges on them (surfaces are no longer smooth). The Extension Springs can be replaced, but if they're not broken and the end "hooks" aren't stretched, they will still work. (Order a spare set if yours are still good.) The Lock Plate(s) and 3-Position Lever are the parts that typically need to be replaced due to wear or the Lock Plate getting caught inside the 3-Position Lever during operation. It's been a while, but the last time I tried to order Pivot Pins, I was able to get them.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you! We will try to get a new Lock Plate and 3-position Lever

@Dar Piche - I don't know the size, but the Part name is Extension Springs. This is a common part that a dealer may have in stock. When requesting this part, let them know that they are part of the older 3-position setup, so they know exactly what springs you're referring to. Be sure to request 2.

@Ron Glaze - Have an experienced repair tech inspect the chair. Many newer La-z-boy electric recliners do not open as far as older models. The tech can tell you if that's the case, or if there's a problem with the mechanism operation instead.

@Ron DenHollander - Sorry, I don't know the size. You'll have to remove one & take it to a local La-z-boy dealer. Or, try a hardware or home improvement store where you can try to match it up.

@MrGoatWalker - Can you email a photo of the part? If so, send it to me at pete@reclinerrepairguy.com

@Janice Doherty - For parts, check with La-z-boy to see if they're still available. For lubricating the mechanism, see this video ----> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-KvvpRINoECI.html

@Nancy Nabholz - That could be due to a few different things: The footrest may be striking the floor or the frame of the sectional. Or, the Leg Extension scissors may be striking the front floor rail, or the mechanism may be bent / damaged. I recommend having an experienced La-z-boy repair tech pinpoint the cause.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you!

@RodneyKarstens-kf7rg - Order the parts from La-z-boy. See this video to learn more -----> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-5M6d40rxH-s.html

@donriley9053 - If the footrest is closing on its own -- not staying open -- you need to inspect the Leg Extenders (scissors), Toggle tension spring & other parts along the Drive Rod. You're looking for bent, broken or damaged parts that are preventing the footrest from locking out into the full-open position. However, if the footrest is staying open, but the chair itself is dipping down in the front, that's likely due to worn Ratcheting Recline parts. See this video for more ---> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-d8Bk2j4dc-k.html

Reynaldo Pena - No videos on that subject yet, sorry. If it's the plastic part that slides onto the Drive Rod, that's not an easy fix. I would recommend having a La-z-boy repair tech do that one. However, if it's not that one, the other plastic parts are pretty easy to replace. Contact your dealer for a sketch if you're having trouble visualizing how the broken part was originally attached.

@f f - Could be a mechanical or electrical problem. Have a repair tech check it out to make a determination.

@teller12 - Not all La-z-boy recliners have the 3-Position Footrest feature. If you don't have the metal setup shown in the video, there is another type which uses the plastic 3-Position Locks shown in this video ----> 'The La-z-boy Recliner 3-Position Footrest.' [ ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--uMYiqBp0y4.html ] If you don't have those, you don't have this feature. HOWEVER, if you check out the video I suggested, it will explain how you may be able to use the plastic locks on your recliner.

See the video series -- 'Drive Rod Replacement' on the ReclinerRepairGuy.com website. Those videos include removing & reinstalling parts along the Drive Rod. The video where you placed this comment shows you how to disassemble the parts. Assembly is done by simply reversing these steps. Tip: Use a bent paper clip to stretch & install the small extension springs. It's easier than using your fingers & less likely to damage the springs. Here are the new parts you'll need to rebuild the older, metal 3-position footrest mechanism. * 3-Position Lever - 1 * Lock Plate(s) -- your setup may have 1 or 2, depending on the age of the chair * Pivot Pins - 2 * Extension Springs - 2 Be sure to add any other parts you need to your parts list, including pins & clips that hold parts in place. When in doubt regarding part names, you can always email them a picture.

@Christian P - If it's a manual recliner and you're referring to the back not returning to an upright position, check out these Seat Swing (the parts that control back tilt) videos: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-eGYS17hvOzY.html and ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-jzN1x5jZ-gA.html If that doesn't help, have an experienced La-z-boy repair tech check out your chair.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 thank you for the help, checked out the video's and managed to fix it by unwinding the springs fully :)

@@ChristianP85 - You're welcome - good job!

@Peter Romano - The first step is to determine if the footrest is being obstructed, or if there is a damaged actuator (or other part) that is causing the problem. Remove the back & turn the chair over onto its arms. Plug in the unit and open & close the footrest while observing the footrest & reclining mechanism parts in action. (Keep your hands aways from moving parts!) Your findings will determine your course of action.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thank you.

Code 68 on it

@Ian Patton - It's about how long they take (not me) and what specific repair(s) they'll be doing. If they are experienced with La-z-boy repairs, they should be able to give you a quote after they inspect your chair.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155 Thanks very much.

@T G - I'd have a repair tech check out your chair to make sure there are no mechanical problems contributing to this issue. If your chair has an adjustable tension spring, they can also adjust that to see if that helps. If there are no mechanical problems, there are handle extenders (generally sold by medical supply companies) that may help. If none of the above suggestions resolves the problem, you should consider purchasing a power recliner or lift chair.

I turned the chair over and put wd40 spray on all the moving parts and the handle works much easier.

@detectoraid5985 - You're welcome!

The Extension Springs can be ordered through the manufacturer -- La-z-boy -- or one of their dealers.

@annie dator - The Extension Springs for the 3-Position Footrest feature can be ordered through La-z-boy or one of their dealers. I'd try a local dealer first, since they may have those springs in-stock at their store.

Lex Conor - Yes, as long as you have a set of Rear Swings with the required cut-out shown in the video. Newer chairs will have this cut-out, while older models may not.

@Cathy Stultz - The first step is to do an inspection (or have a repair tech do one) to determine the cause for the footrest drop. Remove the chair back & turn the bottom over to view the mechanism in action while opening & closing the footrest with the handle. DOING ANY INSPECTION OR REPAIR IS AT YOUR OWN RISK!! The footrest can open or close unexpectedly, causing injury if your hands are inside the chair! Look for bent, broken or otherwise damaged mechanism parts. If none are found, note whether the 3-Position Footrest is controlled by metal parts or the black plastic locks. If metal, follow the suggestions in this video. If the plastic locks are present, remove them as shown in this video --> ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE--uMYiqBp0y4.html Reassemble the chair & test operation. If the footrest no longer drops, the old plastic locks were the cause. If it still drops with the locks removed, you (or the repair tech) missed the problem during the inspection phase.

@@reclinerrepairguy4155

@Valerie Fania - That's normal operation for this La-z-boy design. To avoid this sound, some users do the following: 1) If you have long legs, take 1 foot off of the footrest and place it on the floor beside the chair. Push back -- against the floor -- while closing the footrest. This will relieve the pressure. 2) Rock back in the chair just before lowering the footrest. This takes some coordination, but it works if the ratcheting recline is not maxed out (tilted back all the way).

Omg this was my issue too! Thanks so much. Now my dogs won’t jump every time I close the chair!

@theoriginalplasticwrap - The parts you need for your 3-position footrest setup should still be available. Contact La-z-boy through their contact (email) form on their website to find out.

@EntertainmentHub92 - If you've inspected your mechanism Leg Extenders, as suggested in the video & found no problems, you can try disconnecting the 3-Position Lever (or 3-Position Locks, if you have those). If the footrest still won't stay up, have an experienced repair tech take a look. However, if the entire chair pitches forward, but the footrest stays in the fully open position, this is a Ratcheting Recline problem. Again, have a repair tech take a look.

@blairbunker - Timestamp: 1:45

@donald Cook - Ok, send it to -----> pete@reclinerrepairguy.com

melissa lopez - Contact your sales/service agent to report the problem. If the chair is less than 1 year old, you should still have full warranty coverage. If it's older, they may still be able to diagnose and repair your problem. If not, they should be able to refer you to someone who can.

@julia Woodhouse - That's fairly common with cable release recliners. If the footrest is not closed completely so that it latches shut, it can spring open on its own.

@aszostek3799 - You're welcome -- good job!

@Linda M Johnson - Most electric La-z-boy recliners come with a battery-backup compartment located inside the power supply. If you're concerned about a power failure, make sure you have fresh batteries installed. If you want to disable the footrest, have someone disconnect the electric plug to the footrest actuator for you.

@david hjortnaes - Text from the video, "In a previous video, we covered newer La-z-boy chairs that have that (3-position) feature controlled by this black plastic part, called the 3-Position Lock. The video we're doing today, is going to take a closer look at older chairs that are setup with all metal parts that perform that (3-position) function." I hope that clears up any confusion. As far as interchanging or changing the metal setup over to plastic, it can be done, as described in the video.