How To Cut A Barber Chair Tree
Understanding What the “Barber Chair Tree” Is
The “chair tree” is the central support column that connects the seat to the hydraulic pump. It supports weight, enables rotation, and helps stabilize the chair.
Cutting this component is not common practice, because it affects the chair’s strength, balance, and safety. However, in certain situations—such as customizing chair height, salvaging parts, removing a stuck column, or repurposing the base—technicians may need to shorten or remove the column.
Manufacturers such as Huiyi Furniture use reinforced steel for the support column, so careful technique and the right tools are essential if any modification is attempted.
Before You Cut: Important Safety Warnings
1. Cutting the support column weakens structural integrity
A barber chair is engineered to hold weight safely. Shortening or cutting the column can reduce strength and stability.
2. Modified chairs cannot be used commercially
Shops cannot safely use a chair with an altered tree for clients.
3. Cutting may damage the hydraulic pump if not done correctly
Improper technique can break seals or damage threads.
4. Wear protective equipment
Metal cutting involves sparks, sharp fragments, and heavy components.
Only attempt cutting if the chair is being repaired, repurposed, or disposed—not for regular use.
Tools You Will Need
Angle grinder or hacksaw (for steel cutting)
Bench vise or heavy-duty clamps
Measuring tape and marker
Safety glasses and gloves
File or grinding disc for smoothing edges
Rust-resistant spray (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide: How To Cut a barber chair Tree
Step 1: Separate the Chair From the Hydraulic Base
You must remove the chair to expose the full support column.
Steps:
Pump chair to highest position
Lift seat straight upward
Detach from the tapered shaft
This prevents damage to the upper components.
Step 2: Remove the Tree From the Hydraulic Pump
Many columns are press-fit or threaded.
To remove:
Loosen retaining bolts
Tap gently with a rubber mallet
Pull upward with steady force
If the tree is stuck, apply penetrating oil around the joint.
Step 3: Measure the Amount You Want to Cut
Mark the cutting line clearly.
Consider:
Raising/lowering range will change
Chair stability depends on even, straight cutting
Cutting too short may prevent proper taper seating
Mark with a permanent marker for accuracy.
Step 4: Clamp the Tree Securely
Place the support column in a vise.
Why this matters:
Prevents movement during cutting
Ensures a straight, clean cut
Improves safety
Do not attempt to cut while the piece is loose.
Step 5: Cut the Support Column
Use an angle grinder for steel or a hacksaw for thinner tubing.
Cutting technique:
Follow the marked line slowly
Rotate the tube while cutting for an even edge
Maintain steady pressure
Avoid overheating the metal
Angle grinders produce faster, cleaner cuts for heavy barber chair steel.
Step 6: Smooth and Deburr the Edge
After cutting, the metal edge will be sharp.
Smooth using:
Metal file
Grinding wheel
Sandpaper
A smooth edge prevents damage when reinstalling the column.
Step 7: Test Fit the Modified Tree
Place the cut tree back onto the hydraulic pump.
Check for:
Stability
Tight taper seating
No wobbling
Correct height alignment
If the seating is uneven, re-grind until flat.
Step 8: Reassemble the Chair
Once confirmed safe:
Place seat back onto pump
Test rotation
Test lifting and lowering
The base must remain stable at all heights.
When Cutting Is NOT Recommended
Avoid cutting when:
The chair will be used by clients
The hydraulic unit is still functional
The chair is under warranty
You are unsure of structural safety
Cutting should only be performed on chairs being repurposed, repaired, or dismantled.
Safer Alternatives to Cutting
1. Replace the entire support column
Faster and safer for professional use.
2. Use a shorter hydraulic pump unit
Maintains structural stability without modifying metal.
3. Adjust chair height with base replacements
Common in salons needing lower or higher seating.
Huiyi Furniture offers multiple pump heights and reinforced columns specifically designed for safe modification-free use.
Conclusion
Cutting a barber chair tree is possible but not advisable for chairs in active professional service. It requires proper tools, precise measurement, and strict safety precautions. Always consider safer alternatives first—especially for commercial salons where reliability and safety are essential.