How To: Fix a Broken Armrest '95-97 Cutlass '95-96 Regal, '94-96 GP

A very simple but sure-fire way to fix an armrest that's VERY prone to breaking at the hinge.

Materials:

Both broken pieces of the armrest
Two long bolts, at least 3 1/2 inches in length, about 5/16" diameter
Two matching nuts for said bolts
Matching Lock nuts, washers (optional)
Black paint, or shrink wrap (optional)
Drill bit just slightly larger than the bolt diameter (I used 7/16)

Removal of the armrest hinge is very simple. At the rear of the console are two phillips-head screws. Both are visible once the rear ashtray is removed. Then the two halves of the console can be spread apart approx 1/2" and will allow removal of the broken hinge. Releasing the back of the cupholder/shifter plate assembly may make spreading the console easier. If a pair of black plastic pieces come out with it, those are the hinge-guides/locks. Don't lose them. In fact just put them back in its place.

Take both pieces of the armrest, line them up and squeeze them together either using a vise, or C clamp, whichever works.

Mark two locations where you want to drill two holes, then drill ALL the way thru both pieces.

Insert bolts, tighten down with nuts.

Get creative with the finished product. My results are below and it took me 5 minutes to do.





To reinstall, is the reverse of removal. Just be sure the "hinge guides" are in place correctly BEFORE installing the armrest/hinge assy. I find it easiest to install it in the full-up position.
Rest assured if this breaks again, the console will probably break with it.