Osteoporosis and multiple fractures to my spine have reduced my waist-upwards height by about 4", making it difficult for me to find any chair high enough to sit comfortably in at a desk or table. The draughtsman's swivel chair I have just assembled is unfortunately too high, so I would like to remove the gas cylinder without doing the slightest damage and replace it with one not intended for a draughtsman's chair - i.e. a lower one.

A helper put in the original gas cylinder so I did not get the chance to examine it with a view to seeing what I might be up against if I needed to replace it. I'm finding it difficult to obtain a replacement gas cylinder, but think I will eventually get one to do the job. Will it just be a matter of hammering the original cylinder out from the base and slotting a new one into its place?

The chair's packaging had no information with it (as to provenance) but the following appeared on the outside of the carton: SA 33 BE; SKU; 274498; and GGI.

Whoever has any ideas, thank you! Your advice will be much appreciated.

Anne, May 2007

Hi Anne, It is fairly easy to do this, although you will need to ask someone to do this given your condition. There are various gas stems which have various heights. The draughtsman you have would have a ring kit and glides (not castors). GGI are a manufacturer based in Accrington, Lancs. Tel: 01254 778500. They supply to Staples etc and may be able to put you in touch with a dealer close to you who will be able to get a replacement gas stem. Good Luck.

Catherine, May 2007