How To Install The Tilt Cable Mechanism on the Herman Miller Aeron Chair?
Repairing the tilt mechanism on your Aeron chair can seem daunting, but with the right tools and instructions, it's a task you can complete on your own. Follow this step-by-step guide to fix common issues related to the tilt mechanism, whether your chair was manufactured before or after 2012.
Tools You Will Need:
- Hexagonal head (Allen key or bit)
- Power drill
- Replacement gears (if applicable)
- Tension cables
Steps:
1) Remove the Seat:
- Start by locating the four screws that secure the seat to the chair's frame.
- Using a hexagonal head and a power drill, remove these screws to detach the seat. This will give you access to the tilt mechanism underneath.
2) Access the Tilt Mechanism:
- To open the tilt mechanism, firmly tap the front part to remove the top cover.
- Pull down the bottom cover to move it out of the way and expose the internal parts of the mechanism.
3) Update or Replace the Gear (Pre-2012 Models):
- If your Aeron chair was manufactured before 2012, check the gear within the tilt mechanism. These models require a gear update to function properly.
- Remove the old gear and replace it with the updated version, if necessary.
4) Replace the Clicking Part on the Right Side:
- Identify the clicking part on the right side of the tilt mechanism that needs replacement.
- Unclip the silver stopper and loosen the tilt adjuster completely to remove the faulty part.
- Unhook the spring, remove the broken part, and insert the replacement gear.
- Reattach the silver washer and hook the gear back to the spring.
5) Replace the Gear on the Left Side:
- After dealing with the right side, focus on the left side of the tilt mechanism.
- Remove the old gear and install the new one, ensuring to hook the spring to the new gear correctly.
6) Attach the Tension Cables:
- Attach both tension cables to their corresponding gears on the left and right sides of the tilt mechanism.
- Ensure that each tension cable is securely connected to its respective gear.
7) Install the Tension Adapter:
- Insert the other end of the tension adapter into its designated spot.
- Using a hexagonal head, tighten a screw to secure the tension mechanism in place.
8) Attach the Control Handles:
- Firmly attach the control handles to the tension mechanism. You might need to tap the handles into place to ensure a secure fit.
- Test the tilt mechanism to ensure it operates correctly before proceeding to reassemble the chair.
9) Understand the Tilt Controls:
- Note that if both control handles are pressed simultaneously, the chair will only tilt backward and not forward.
- To enable forward tilt, lean back slightly and push up on the right control button.
10) Reassemble the Chair:
- Start by raising the bottom case and clicking it back into place.
- Next, position the top of the tilt mechanism and secure it.
- Place the seat back onto the frame, aligning it with the screw holes.
- Initially, set the screws by hand to ensure proper alignment, then tighten them using a hexagonal head on a power drill.
Final Thoughts:
With these steps, you should be able to fix common issues with the tilt mechanism of your Aeron chair, extending its life and improving its functionality. Remember, taking care of your chair not only ensures your comfort but also supports your posture and health during long work hours.