Hi,
I used a 10/12 gauge solid (coated) copper wire of sufficient length that I wrapped up into the hole for the cable pull, ran out from the bottom of the recliner, up and over the back of the chair and wrapped it into the handle. So you can get the recliner to open, and since it won't be replaced, I don't care that it looks kinda whacky. It looks kinda like a parachute rip cord, but it works.... 8-)
Now my side has broken, so I have to do it for my side now.
David B, February 2010