Abstract: A leg rest operating mechanism for a recliner chair is disclosed in which the leg rest and the leg rest actuating means are mounted on the movable chair seat. A manually operable drive means is mounted on the chair frame and a linkage type lost motion means connects the drive means and the actuating means. The lost motion means permits the seat and leg rest to move relative to the chair frame and drive means without affecting the ability of the drive means and actuating means to extend or retract the leg rest.