How to: Fix armrest hinge bracket

Mooseman

Original poster
Moderator
Dec 4, 2011
25,257
Ottawa, ON
Noticed that the hinge end of the armrest would move quite a bit fore and aft, which would let it open by itself moving forward.

Difficulty (out of 5): 1
Tools required: 7mm socket, Philips screwdriver, 3/8" wrench, drill
Time required (removal and install): 1 hour

1. Open the armrest and remove the 6 Philips screws holding the compartment tray. The two in the bottom may be covered by a rubber cover. Remove the compartment tray.
2. You may now notice that the hinge bracket is now really loose and may even pull out without unscrewing. Remove the three 7mm screws holding the hinge to the bracket.

Here you will see the broken bracket plastic standoffs that are supposed to hold the bracket to the armrest.
DSC_0544.JPG DSC_0546.JPG

3. Separate the metal part from the plastic part of the bracket.
4. Take the metal part and put it back in the spot where it belongs in the armrest.
5. If required, drill holes into the armrest plastic corresponding to the metal bracket holes.
6. Using 4 6-32 countersunk machine screws and lock nuts, bolt the metal bracket to the armrest.
DSC_0548.JPG
7. Take the plastic part of the bracket and file, grind or Dremel off the four standoffs.
DSC_0550_1.JPG
8. Put the plastic part on top of the metal bracket and screw the armrest hinge back on.
DSC_0551.JPG
9. Test the closing of the armrest. If the lock doesn't hold right or enough, you may need to adjust the hinge back but the bracket and holes in the hinge won't allow it. Drill out the screw holes and the alignment holes in the hinge. This should allow you to move the hinge a little further back, allowing the lock to grab more.
10. Re-install the compartment tray with its 6 screws.
 

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