My recliner is about 16 years old. Suddenly after flawless use, the mechanism locked up halfway between the sitting position and the reclining position. Can not move the lever at all. Any advice and or suggestions? The repair facility won't accept it considering the age of the piece. Leather is still perfect so I would like to repair it if possible.

John Sigsbury, April 2008

I was persistent and continued to explore the chair mechanism. I discovered that a small spring the locks the travel throw of the lever was not holding the lock open, so I shortened the spring and lubricated the mechanism. Viola! Works perfectly again.

John Sigsbuy, April 2008