Repairing a snapped recliner cable

[Duer 157099]

So I have this recliner that no longer reclines because the cable that controls this has snapped.

I have found some online suppliers where I can get a replacement one, but in the meantime, I'm wondering if there's some other temp (or permanent) solution.

The cable is very similar to that used in bicycle brakes. The ends both have specific configurations so they can attach to their respective devices (handle and lever) but I can imagine alternate ways to attach (eg, rings, like a keyring ring).

My first question is: what about soldering the wire back together? I suspect that it wouldn't be strong enough and would just snap again, but are there tricks around this?

If I did just find a length of bicycle brake cable, how would I attach a ring to the end of it? Solder? Again, same issue.

Just curious if anyone has any ideas, something I could do quickly so I could use the chair tonight or tomorrow.

(do we have an inventor's forum, or is this the closest thing for brainstorming about such questions?)

[HopeHoops]

1. Solder is flat out. There might be a solution depending on how much exposed cable there is.

They make a cable clamp that looks like some kind of fishing weight. From the end, it looks like two straws, shaped a little like binoculars. The cable goes in one side, you loop it back and put it through the other and then smash the crap out of it with a sledge hammer. Bike locks often have this type of clamp.

If you think there is room to make two loops, take one end with you to the hardware store - you MUST get the right size - it should only just pass through. Also pick up a turnbuckle. If you don't know what it is, it has a hook eye or rings on either end of two bolts that are threaded opposite to each other. In the center is a long piece that they screw into from opposite ends. If it has rings, run the loops through them before sealing the clamps. Extend the screws all the way out to install it and then tighten the center piece to draw the screws in together.

The size turnbuckle you get will depend on some rough measurements. You'll need one large enough to get the cable tight enough that the chair arm works again.

[Duer 157099]

2. Thanks for the suggestions

Those pieces, cable clamp and turnbuckle, plus some bike brake cable, should help to patch this thing up. One way or another. Now the sledgehammer part, that's going to be trickier... lol

:thumbsup: