DIY Arm Plate Mod Guide

Is your gaming chair’s throne-like status being ruined by worn-out, wobbly, or just plain ugly armrests? You’re not alone. In South Africa, our long gaming sessions demand comfort, but armrests are often the first part to show wear and tear. Before you start browsing for a whole new chair, consider this: a simple DIY arm plate mod can breathe new life into your setup, saving you cash and adding a personal touch. 🔧

Why an Arm Plate Mod is Worth Your Time

Let's be honest, a good gaming chair is an investment in your comfort and performance. But even the best ones can suffer from scuffed or cracked arm plates over time. A quick DIY arm plate mod isn't just about aesthetics; it's about restoring crucial ergonomic support.

Proper arm position reduces strain on your shoulders and neck, which can be the difference between clutching a win and logging off with a headache. Instead of putting up with discomfort, a simple modification can make your R2,000 chair feel like a top-tier model again. Of course, if your chair's problems go beyond the armrests, it might be worth checking out the best gaming chair deals to see if a full upgrade makes more sense.

Your Quick & Easy DIY Arm Plate Mod Guide

Ready to get your hands dirty? This guide is designed to be straightforward, even if you’re not a seasoned DIY pro. The goal is to get you back in the game with maximum comfort and minimal fuss.

noblechairs EPIC Series Gaming Chair - BLACK/GOLD / Premium Design / Finest Design / Solid Steel Frame / Plenty of Adjustment / Easy Assembly / Max Load 120kg / NBL-PU-GOL-002

R7599.00In Stock

Gamdias ZELUS M4 Weave Gaming Chair - Grey/Black / Adjustable Headrest / Full Backrest Recline / Microfiber and Fabric Weave / 2D Adjustable Armrests / 5 Star Steel Base / ZELUS-M4-Weave

R3999.00In Stock

[BLACK/BLUE] Vertagear Racing Series S-Line SL3800 Gaming Chairs / 100KG Weight Limit / Easy Assembly / Adjustable Seat Height / VG-SL3800SE_MB

R5499.00In Stock

HHGears SM-115 PU Leather Gaming Chair - Black / High Quality PU Leather / Height Adjustability / High Quality Stitching / Max Weight Load 90kg / Net Weight 17kg / SM115_BK

R2499.00In Stock

Arozzi Torretta Soft Fabric Gaming Chair - Dark Grey / Soft PU Leather / 3D Adjustable Armrests / Max Load up to 100kg / Durable Upholstery Furniture Fabric / Multidimensional Armrests / Seat and Backrest up to 12° / Tough Metal Frame / TORRETTA-SFB-DG

R4099.00In Stock

Vertagear Racing Series P-Line PL6800 Gaming Chairs - Black/Red / 181KG Weight Limit / Easy Assembly / Adjustable Seat Height / VG-PL6800SE_BR

R7799.00In Stock

What You’ll Need

• A Phillips head screwdriver: The most common tool for chair assembly.
• Replacement arm pads/plates: You can often find universal replacements online or get creative with custom solutions.
• Optional: Strong adhesive (like contact adhesive), extra padding (e.g., high-density foam), or new fabric/pleather for reupholstering.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Assess and Remove: Flip your chair over or lay it on its side. Inspect how the current arm plates are attached. Usually, it’s just two to four screws. Carefully remove them and the old plate.
2. Clean the Surface: Wipe down the armrest structure to remove any dust or old adhesive residue. A clean surface ensures a secure fit for your new plates.
3. Prepare the New Plate: If you're simply swapping for a new one, line it up with the screw holes. If you're adding custom padding, now's the time to glue it onto your new plate. Let it dry completely before attaching.
4. Install and Secure: Screw the new arm plate firmly into place. Tighten the screws evenly, but don't overtighten, as this could crack the plastic.
5. Test for Stability: Give the armrest a good wobble. It should feel solid and secure. Repeat on the other side, and you're done! ✨

Sometimes, a simple fix is all you need. For many gamers, a solid and reliable seat is key, and you can find an excellent gaming chair under R4000 that will serve you well for years.

Taking Your Mod to the Next Level 🚀

Why stop at a basic repair? This is your chance to create something unique.

• Upgraded Padding: Add a layer of memory foam under the new plate for cloud-like comfort.
• Custom Upholstery: Reupholster the pads with a fabric or colour that matches your gaming setup's theme.
• 3D Printing: For the truly dedicated, designing and 3D-printing a completely custom arm plate is the ultimate personalisation project.

Of course, these advanced features often come standard on high-end models. The premium gaming chairs above R4000 frequently include 4D adjustable armrests with plush, durable materials right out of the box, offering a level of customisation that’s tough to replicate with a DIY project.

Ready for a True Comfort Upgrade? A DIY mod is fantastic, but sometimes you just need a fresh start. Explore our massive range of gaming chairs in South Africa and find the perfect throne to conquer your next adventure.