Glider Chair Sticks or Squeaks — What Part Fixes This Problem?

Understanding the Problem

Glider chairs use a simple pivot-and-track mechanism (bushings, bearings, springs or struts, and mounting hardware) to produce smooth back-and-forth motion. Over time the bushings wear, metal parts corrode, springs fatigue, or bolts loosen — causing squeaks, sticking, uneven motion, or complete failure to glide. Below are step-by-step diagnostics and repair instructions you can follow at home. 1) Quick inspection and symptom confirmation - Sit in the chair and move it slowly through its full glide range. Note where it sticks, clicks, or makes noise. Try gliding with and without weight to see if the problem is load-dependent. - Remove cushions or fabric covers so you can access the frame and mechanism. 2) Visual check - Look for broken or missing hardware (bolts, cotter pins, clips), visible cracks in the frame, bent pivot arms, or obviously worn bushings (plastic/bronze sleeves) at the pivots. - Check for rust or dirt buildup on tracks and pivot points. 3) Test moving parts by hand - Use your hand to move the glider and feel for rough spots or play in the pivots. Excessive lateral play at pivots usually means worn bushings/bearings. - Wiggle pivot bolts to check for loose mounting. Tighten loose bolts to factory torque if known (usually snug but not over-tightened). 4) Narrow down the failing part - If tightening bolts stops noise and restores smooth action, the repair may be complete. - If noise returns or movement is still rough, the likely parts are worn bushings, damaged bearings, failed springs/struts, or a bent linkage. 5) Remove the mechanism for detailed inspection (typical for wood/frame gliders) - Tools: socket set or wrench set, screwdrivers, penetrating oil, rubber mallet, pliers. Place chair on its back on a protected surface. - Support the frame so it won’t collapse when you remove pivot bolts. Remove cotter pins or retaining clips and back out pivot bolts. Note the order of parts and take photos for reassembly. 6) Inspect components off the chair - Remove old bushings from pivot holes. Inspect bearings/rollers if present. - Inspect springs/struts for broken coils, stretched or weak action, or oil leakage (gas springs). - Check linkage arms for bends or cracks. 7) Repair or replace - Replace worn bushings/bearings with a glider repair kit sized for your model. Press new bushings into place (use a socket/press or gently tap with a block of wood to avoid damage). - Replace broken springs or gas struts with exact-fit replacements (match length and mounting style). - Replace any stripped or bent bolts, washers, and retaining clips with new hardware. - Clean metal parts and apply a light coating of lithium grease or white grease to pivot points (avoid heavy oils that attract dirt). 8) Reassemble and test - Reinstall mechanism in reverse order using new or lightly greased hardware. Tighten bolts so pivots move freely without lateral slop. - Test glide under weight and without to ensure smooth operation and no contact binding. 9) Final adjustments and preventive care - If noise persists, double-check for metal-on-metal contact surfaces and add felt pads or thin washers where appropriate. - Establish a maintenance schedule: clean and relube pivots every 6–12 months depending on use. Safety note: Always support the chair frame before removing pivot bolts to prevent collapse. Use eye protection when removing retaining clips or tapping parts. If the wooden frame is cracked or the metal linkage is severely bent, replace those structural parts or consult a professional to avoid collapse during use.

Common Symptoms

Squeaking, grinding or clicking during glide; sticking or uneven movement; excessive side-to-side play; one side glides while the other is stiff.

Common Causes

• Worn or collapsed pivot bushings or bearings at the glider pivots
• Broken, fatigued, or leaking springs / gas struts in the linkage
• Loose, bent, or missing mounting hardware or damaged frame/linkage

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

Frequently Asked Questions