I bought an eames fiberglass shell chair today for 30 bucks! it has a swivel base and looks similar to the one in the pic but its not covered in vinyl, or leatherette.
anyway my problem is that i just ordered a rocker base reproduction to go on it, and when i went to take off the eames authentic base it wouldnt come off after i took the screws out, almost like the past 47 years its been around has gotten it to stick like glue to the chair or something.
anyone have a similar problem?
... i need to get it off.
Be patient.
The shock mounts on most old chairs will harden and become brittle, if you are too violent they will chip or crack. First decide if the mounts need to be replaced, if they do then you can follow the tutorial on http://www.chairfag.com on removing them.
But if you think the mounts are fine: Give the metal legs a few good knocks using a mallet. Be careful not to hit the legs right where they attach to the mounts, but a few inches away and perhaps the vibrations will help loosen the base. You can also try applying pressure to the seat of the chair using your palms and gently shifting your weight side to side until the base frees itself. These tricks have worked for several of my shells just the other day. You might also try spraying them with a bit of WD-40 and leaving them overnight then trying the same in the morning. As a last resort take a metal putty knife/scraper and attempt to separate the shocks and base.
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