Ever felt frustrated trying to glide across your office, only to be stopped short by a stubborn, worn-out caster wheel? It’s time to replace them.
Replacing caster wheels might seem daunting, but trust me, it’s simpler than it looks and requires no technical knowledge.
Replacing Chair Wheels
- Remove the Old Wheels
- Identify Your Wheel Type and Size
- Select Your New Wheels
- Remove the Other Old Wheels
- Install the New Wheels
Step 1: Removing the Old Wheels
First, turn the office chair upside down. This gives you easy access to the wheels. Grasp a wheel, twist it clockwise, and pull it outwards. If it doesn’t budge, use a flathead screwdriver to help pry the wheel out from the chair’s leg.
Step 2: Identify Your Wheel Type and Size
With one wheel off, look closely to identify its type (stem or plate) and size. This ensures you buy replacements that fit your chair.
Step 3: Select Your New Wheels
Consider your floor type and chair weight when choosing new wheels. Materials range from plastic to metal. The goal is to find wheels that fit your chair and roll easily on your floor type.
Step 4: Remove the Other Old Wheels
Now, remove the remaining old wheels, using the same method as in step 1.
Step 5: Install Your New Wheels
Align the stem or plate of each new wheel with the chair socket. Push the wheel in until it’s secure. When all wheels are attached, flip the chair back and give it a test roll.
Choosing the Right Wheel Replacements
Different wheel types work best for different situations:
- Grip Stem Caster: A stem with grooves holds the wheel in the chair base. Ideal for standard office chairs and carpeted floors.
- Threaded Stem Casters: These wheels screw into the chair base, creating a secure connection. They’re perfect for tile or concrete floors.
- Swivel Plate: These wheels have a flat metal plate that attaches to the chair base. Their larger size suits hard surfaces like concrete or wood flooring.
- Stemless Casters: Lacking a traditional stem, these wheels directly attach to the chair. They provide a sleek, modern look but might not fit all chair types.
Chair Wheel Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning: Use a soft cloth or brush to remove dust or debris from your wheels. This can prevent jams and slow wear and tear.
- Lubricating Ball Bearings: Applying lubricating oil to the ball bearings of your wheels every few months can ensure smooth rolling.
- Checking Weight Capacity: If your chair feels unstable or if the wheels seem problematic, check the chair’s weight capacity to ensure it’s still suitable.
Replacing Caster Wheel FAQs
How do you remove a broken wheel?
Turn the chair upside down. If the wheel is still partly intact, use pliers to grasp the stem, then twist and pull it out. Be careful to avoid scratching the chair leg.
Can you replace chair wheels with feet?
Yes, you can replace wheels with feet or “glides.” After removing the wheels, install the glides, ensuring they fit your chair model securely.
Why won’t my chair wheels go in?
This might occur if the wheels don’t match your chair’s stem size or mount type. Check the specifications of your chair and wheels. A clean socket and a firm push usually solve this issue.
What can I do if my chair is wobbly?
Fixing an unsturdy office chair can take a bit more investigating than changing the caster wheels, so we wrote an entire guide on how to fix a wobbly chair.
