Replacing a drawer slide is not easy, but you can do it yourself if you have the right tools and skills. The drawer slides need replacement when it becomes difficult to open and close. Also, other signs that the drawer slide needs replacement are when you notice squishy noise, wabbling, etc. When you see these signs, you can replace the drawer slide.
Meanwhile, it’s best to replace the drawer slide as soon as you notice a few of these signs. Read and learn how to replace your drawer slide and the tools you need for this task.
Steps to replace your drawer slides yourself
Replacing your drawer slides is one of the DIY tasks you can try out. Also, the manufacturer of industrial telescopic slides and linear guide rails provides tips on how to install them. Check out the steps below to replace your drawer slides.
Remove drawers
Remove the drawers from the dresser to get access to the slides. Removing the slides makes the job easier, so you can replace them.
Remove the old slides
With a screwdriver, you can remove the screw holding the slides. Carefully remove the slides from the drawer so it doesn’t get damaged. When the slides get stuck in the drawer, removing and fixing the new ones becomes difficult.
Measure and mark
Get a tape to measure the length of the new slide. The length and breadth of the slide should be the same as the previous one. Use a pencil or chalk to mark the measured areas on your drawer.
Drill holes
You may not need to drill holes in the drawer using the same kind of slides. However, keep a driller handy because the previous one may need drilling. Don’t drill the hole too big; otherwise, it may damage the drawer.
Install the new slides
It’s time to install the new slides on the drawer. Meanwhile, keep the screws and tools you need handy. Any mistake while installing the slides could damage the drawer. Use a leveler to check if the slides are installed properly. Ensure the new slides are even and in the same position as the old ones.
Reinstall the drawer
It’s time to reinstall the drawer after replacing the old slides with the new ones. Carefully place the drawer in its position, but do so slowly. Don’t force it in to fit, or it may become difficult to open. Ensure that the drawer opens freely without any hitch. Test the drawer several times to make sure it fits properly and opens smoothly.
Tools you need to install the drawer slides
To install the drawer slide properly, you need certain tools. Below are the tools you need to install the drawer slides smoothly.
- Screwdriver: You can not deploy a drawer slide without a screwdriver. The screwdriver will be used to take away the old slides and install the brand-new ones. Not using the proper screwdriver will wreck the screw. Therefore, use the right screwdriver to take away the screw.
- Measuring tape: A measuring tape will be used to measure the length of the slides. Using the measuring tape helps you get the right slide.
- Pencil or chalk: When you measure the slides, you need to mark the position with a pencil or chalk. People prefer to use a pencil because it helps make the measurements accurate.
- Level: Use the leveler to ensure that every part of the slide is in the right position.
- Driller: With the driller, you bore a hole in the drawer if it is necessary.
Drawer slide maintenance tips
If you don’t maintain the drawer slide, then it will get bad again after replacing it. Check out the maintenance tips for drawer slides.
- Lubricate the slides often. Rub grease on the drawer slide so it doesn’t rust.
- Clean the slides: Cleaning the drawer slides is very important. Regular cleaning prevents the slides from rusting or wear and tear.
- Don’t overload the drawer: When you store very heavy items in the drawer, it will make the slides wear and tear quickly. Read the slide guides to check if it carries heavy items. However, these heavy-duty guides are ideal for all your technical projects.
Conclusion
If the drawer is very big, then you may need an expert to help you install the slides. Finally, don’t fail to measure the slides accurately before installation.
