See how to measure recliner handles and cables so you get the correct length cable replacement for your recliner. Shows the different kinds of recliner handles with cable included as well.
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How To Measure Recliner Handles And Cables
Most Common Types
Here we have the most common types of recliner handles:
- oval trigger handle
- lever handle
- D handle
- round trigger handle
The oval trigger handle has a release mechanism, like a flapper style. The lever handle is used manually, the D handle is a pull system, and the round trigger is exactly the same as the oval, with the little flapper style release mechanism.
Parts of the Handle and Cable Mechanism
The parts of the handle and cable mechanism are:
- handle
- cable
- tail end
The tail end runs from the mechanism clip to the very end of what’s called a dog leg or an S bend.
The tail length is the measurement from the edge of the mechanism clip to the end of S bend.
Measuring The Tail Length of a Cable
Measurement for tail length is taken from the edge of the mechanism clip, to the end of the S bend or the dog leg. Just place the edge of the mechanism clip on a ruler to see the tail length.
In this example in the video, the tail length is 120mm, which is the measurement taken from the edge of the mechanism clip to the end of the S bend.
Unclip The Cable From The Handle
However, to get an accurate measurement of the tail end, you must always remove the cable from the handle.
First by squeezing the spring clip together as shown in the video and the clip will come off.
Next, lift the cable up so you can maneuver the cable free from the handle.
After that, push the exposed cable (from the handle end) all the way into the cable cover and this will expose the full tail length at the other end.
Measuring from mechanism clip again, you can see that the true length of this tail length is 140mm.
So, 140mm tail length is what what you what you actually need to buy because once it’s connected to the handle, you lose about 20mm.
D Handles
Short Neck and Long Neck
The D handles basically come in two types:
- short neck
- long neck
The difference is the cable length between the mounting plate to the D handle. This is for when you need that little bit of extra travel to allow for cushions in between seats. See how to replace a D handle.
Tail Lengths
The two tail lengths of D handles are:
- 79mm
- 123mm
Barrel Size
Barrel size for release trigger handles refers to the hole in the handle where the cable clips into.
There are two sizes for release trigger handles:
- 3.5mm
- 6mm
This size is measured across the face of the barrel.
To fit into the handle, just place the barrel into an opening edge, pull it down towards the back then the little cable clip goes down and clicks in.
Then attach spring clip from underneath and push it down to lock it in.
If you have a La-Z-Boy, check out at how to replace a handle with release cable on your La-Z-Boy recliner.
Recliner Bitz
We sell recliner handles with cables at great prices. See our complete range of recliner parts that can be shipped around Australia and internationally.
You may be interested to see how to replace a flapper style recliner handle.