Removing draws from lateral metal steel file cabinets can be a tricky process, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be done efficiently. Steel file cabinets are common in many offices and can help keep documents organized and secure. However, over time the draw slides and rails can become stuck or damaged. Replacing individual damaged draws or rails is preferable to replacing the whole cabinet. This article will provide a step-by-step vedio guide on how to remove stubborn draws from lateral steel filing cabinets.
Necessary Tools and Materials
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Pliers
- Lubricant (WD-40 or similar)
- Rubber mallet or hammer
- Wood block
Preparing to Remove the Draw
Before starting to remove the draw, it’s important to empty it fully and remove any hanging file folders or contents. This helps reduce weight and allows you to more easily access the draw slides.
Gather the necessary tools and materials and clear sufficient workspace around the filing cabinet. The draw will need to be pulled out as far as possible, so ensure there is adequate space.
Proper safety precautions should be taken – wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from metal fragments or lubricant spray.
Removing Drawer Front Screws
Lateral file cabinet draws are held in place by screws along the drawer front. The first step is using a Phillips head screwdriver to remove these screws.
Typically there will be two to four screws per draw. Set the screws aside in a safe place for reinstallation later.
With the front panel screws removed, the draw front can detach from the draw slides. However, it will likely take considerable force to separate completely.
Using Lubricant to Loosen Stuck Draws
If the draws appear stuck and won’t pull free from the slides, lubricant can help loosen them. WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant works best.
Fully extend the draw and spray lubricant along the draw sides where it connects to the slide rails. Allow it to penetrate for 10-15 minutes.
Open and close the draw a few times to work in the lubricant. This helps loosen any sticky connection points between the draw and slides.
Applying lubricant and manually working the draw helps relieve tension making the draws easier to remove fully.
Removing Drawer Sides from Slides
With the drawer front detached and lubricant applied, the next stage is separating the draw sides from the slide rails. This typically requires considerable force.
Position a wood block against the interior draw front to protect it from damage. Carefully tap the wood block using a rubber mallet or hammer.
Apply repeated firm taps to the block, being cautious to not damage the draw front. The goal is to drive the draw sides off the slide rails.
Alternate tapping from side to side until the rails release. Drawer slides have locking tabs that must disengage for full removal.
Troubleshooting Stuck Drawer Slides
If the drawer sides remain stuck after lubricating and tapping, there are a few other techniques to try:
- Pry the slides – Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry apart the slide rail from draw side. Take care not to damage the slide mechanism.
- Twist the draw – Grab both sides of draw and gently twist back and forth while pulling outward. This can help release the locking tabs.
- Tap rails inward – Use pliers to grasp slide rails and lightly tap toward the draw center. This pushes the locking tabs inward, releasing the draw sides.
- Remove rail screws – If needed, unscrew any additional screws, clips or brackets securing the rails. This allows full slide rail removal.
Remaining patient and methodical is key to separating stubborn draws from slide rails. Persistence usually pays off.
Removing Drawer Slides from Cabinet
With the draw sides removed from the slide rails, the rails can next be detached from the file cabinet itself.
Cabinet lateral file drawers have two slide rails per draw. Rails are secured inside the cabinet vertically and attach to the draw sides.
Examine rails to locate any retaining screws or clips. Remove these to detach the rail. Some use tension tabs which release the rail when pried outward.
Take note of rail and screw locations for proper reinstallation. Marking left/right on the rails prevents mixing them up later.
With rails unsecured, carefully slide them forward out of the cabinet rail brackets. Maneuver around any obstructions until fully removed.
Cleaning Drawer Slides
Before reinstalling drawers and slides, take the opportunity to fully clean the slide rails and mechanisms.
Buildup of dirt, dust and debris can impede smooth drawer operation over time. This also causes excess friction and sticking.
Use a lint-free cloth and cleaning solution to wipe down the rails. Cotton swabs or compressed air can help clear grime from tight spots.
Lubricate slide mechanisms with a fresh application of WD-40 or lithium grease. This prevents recurrence of sticking issues.
Allow rails to dry fully before reinstalling into the filing cabinet. Proper cleaning promotes smooth gliding and extends the life of slide hardware.
Reinstalling Drawer Slides and Drawers
With slides and drawers fully detached and cleaned, the final step is correctly reinstalling them. Reverse the removal process to attach the components.
Slide rails must be oriented properly with brackets aligned to rail grooves inside the cabinet. Fasten retaining screws or clips to secure.
Attach drawer sides back onto slide rails, taking care to fully engage the locking tabs. Lubricate contact points.
Position the drawer front against the sides and install the retaining screws. Take care not to overtighten screws.
Test that the reassembled drawers open and close smoothly. Adjust rails or lubricate further if needed.
With proper tools and techniques, removing stuck draws from metal filing cabinets is very doable. Just take time to work methodically and avoid forcing components. Patience and lubricant go a long way for successful draw removal and reinstallation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Drawers from Lateral File Cabinets
How do I remove a stuck drawer from a lateral file cabinet?
First empty the contents fully and remove hanging folders. Detach the drawer front using a screwdriver. Apply lubricant like WD-40 and work the drawer back and forth to loosen it. Use a wood block and mallet to firmly tap the drawer sides inward while pulling outward to release from the slides. Prying or twisting can also help release stuck drawers.
What kind of lubricant is best for stuck file cabinet drawers?
WD-40 or another penetrating lubricant works very well to loosen stuck lateral file cabinet drawers. Apply liberally along the drawer sides and slide rails and allow time to penetrate. The lubricant seeps into tight friction points allowing smoother operation.
Should I remove drawer slides when taking out file cabinet drawers?
In most cases, yes. Removing the slide rails allows full access to maneuver the drawer sides and overcome sticking points. Detach rails by removing any retaining screws/clips or prying off tension tabs. Take care not to bend the rails when removing.
How can I avoid damaging file cabinet drawers when removing them?
Use a wood block against the interior drawer front when hammering to remove stuck draws. This protects the drawer front from damage. Leverage your body weight rather than brute strength. Take your time and don’t force components. Proper lubrication and technique prevents damage.
Why do file cabinet drawers get stuck and stop working smoothly?
Age, wear and tear, dust/debris buildup and lack of lubrication are main causes. The slide rails and drawer sides are metal-on-metal. Without proper cleaning and lubrication, friction builds up over years of use leading to sticking issues.
Should I lubricate file cabinet slides when reinstalling drawers?
Absolutely. Anytime drawers are removed, it’s an opportunity to thoroughly clean and lubricate the slide rails and mechanisms. This promotes smooth, trouble-free operation. Use WD-40 or lithium grease on slide contact points. Avoid over-lubricating.
What’s the proper way to reinstall drawers and slides in file cabinets?
Carefully slide rails back into the cabinet brackets in their original left/right orientation. Secure with screws or clips. Attach drawer sides to slide rails, ensuring locking tabs engage fully. Lubricate sides. Position drawer front on cabinet and replace the mounting screws. Test drawer operation before reloading contents.
Can I replace just one broken file cabinet drawer/slide?
Yes, it’s possible to replace individual drawers or slides in lateral file cabinets without needing to replace the entire cabinet. Obtain replacement components that match your cabinet model. Carefully detach damaged parts and install new. With proper installation, replacements restore function.
Is it worth fixing stuck drawers or should I just buy a new filing cabinet?
In many cases, repairing stuck drawers by removing them, cleaning, lubricating and reinstalling slides and drawers can restore smooth function. This is a more economical option over fully replacing quality metal cabinets. However, evaluate repair costs compared to replacement if damage is excessive.
Conclusion
Removing stuck drawers from lateral file cabinets can seem daunting but is very doable with some mechanical skill and the proper techniques. The key steps involve unscrewing the drawer front, lubricating slide contact points, firmly tapping to disconnect the drawer sides, detaching slides, thoroughly cleaning and lubricating components, and carefully reinstalling.
Patience and proper tool use prevents component damage. Equipped with the tips in this vedio guide, you can successfully remedy stuck drawers in metal office filing cabinets and get them gliding smoothly once again. With some perseverance, you can avoid the cost of full cabinet replacement.