removing nails

[tom_s]

Hi,
I'm working on an old chair that needs to be taken apart to start with. However there's a bit that's held together by a rather big nail. Any tips on how can I remove the nails (both sides, see the photo) without damaging the chair? Whoever nailed it together has done a very good job as I can't get to it at all...

Thanks,
Tom

 

[doorframe]

Hi Tom. Is it possible to drive it right through rather than trying to pull it out?

 

[MMUK]

I would normally gently try to prise a gap between the two pieces and then use a hacksaw blade to cut the nail. The top section can then be drifted out and the remainder drilled around with a small drill and removed with pointed pliers. Then I'd use a dowel to fill the holes.