How can I repair this antique adjustable mirror?
by Kelsi P
+3
I have a nice antique mirror (see attached pics) but there are two issues: 1) the arms are loose and 2) it's not actually adjustable and the mirror itself just swings freely on the frame unless you stick something between it and the wall.What steps should I take toward fixing either of these issues?
The picture does not show enough detail of the hardware, but it seems like the mirror is attached to the posts with nuts and bolts. Have you tried tightening the nuts against the posts to reduce the 'swing' ?
If this does not rectify the problem, then likely the bolts/and/or the holes are stripped.
I tried moving the wingnuts, but they're stuck tight. Tried using a penetrating oil on them, but nothing happened.
The arms are probably screwed on so check to see if they are tight and not worked their way loose. Placing a small wad of painters tape in the corners of the back of the mirror will help to hold it in place and steady.
It may be that the length of the mirror below where it is attached to the arms is too long (therefore too heavy) to stay in a fixed position.
One option is to drill two additional holes identical to the ones that exist now, only lower down the arms, so that there are two sets (instead of one) of hardware to anchor the mirror in place and to keep it from swinging.
Looks like the arms are screwed in from the bottom. The last photo shows a plug in the foot that covers the screw head. The plug may be friction fit or glued in. You may be able to pry it out or drill it out. Tighten the screws or replace them. The pivot pins for the mirror are also friction fit into the posts. The wingnuts tighten or loosen the bracket around the pins to allow adjusting of the mirror like a hinge. Try using WD40 on the wingnuts and let it soak in for a few hours. Be careful trying to loosen them since they are brass and can break easy. You may need to epoxy the pivot pins into the arms if they are loose.
It's ironic, I just have the almost identical mirror with the same problems. I found this site while researching the problem. I have not found a solution to the free swinging mirror yet. I don't think the other replies grasp the issue. I think the inside of the hinge is either partially broken of worn so there is no friction on the ball the is inserted into it. As for the bottom of the mirror. My mirror had one of the wooden nuts missing. I found a metal nut at Home Depot that fit well enough to tighten the pole. Let me know if you find a solution. Do you have an idea what country and time period the mirror is from?