Lowering the Dinette Table

Regarding the challenge of lowering the table, here is the technique we use and it has been successful since it was demonstrated by the dealer rep. When we inspected the boat as we were completing the commissioning process:

1. Loosen the large screw at the base by turning it several rotations to be sure that there is no friction on the tube.

2. With both hands placed directly over the tube, suddenly/abruptly, with a striking blow with both heels on the palms of your hands produce a sudden downward pressure on the top of the table to break the gas pressure lock and then the pressure is relieved and allows the tube to retract. Normally we can break the pressure lock on the first attempt and if it does not work at first, I repeat with increased a sudden pressure strike with greater force with my arms extended. I do not think I have had to ever make a third attempt when extending my arms to increase the striking force by also using the momentum of by upper body. My petite size wife has also used the same approach to successful lower the table demonstrating to me that it is not brute force, but rather one's technique that works best. Be sure to tighten the friction screw to keep the table in the desired lower position.

3. To return the table to the desired height, I simple loosen the friction screw and the table raises on its own at a rate of speed depending on how much friction is applied to the tube when loosening the friction screw.

We lower the table frequently (more than a dozen times a year) and have even made some 2 x 4 I-beam type struts to place on either side of the post under the table to stabilize the table when we lower the table for use by our overnight guests.

Rick

My-Ria Hull #277