Replace worn drawer slides
Fit a matched pair of side-mounted slides and align the drawer for smooth travel.
Home · 2–3 hr · Medium
Before you start
Empty and support the drawer before releasing it. Secure freestanding furniture against tipping. Limit drill depth so screws cannot pierce the drawer or cabinet; keep hands out of slide pinch points.
Tools and materials
- Matched side-mount slide pair and maker-specified screws or brackets
- Screwdriver, drill with depth stop, measuring tape, square, level, pencil and support blocks
Check the problem
Check the drawer box first
Look for loose joints, a sagging bottom or screws rubbing on the slides. Repair the box or loose mounting before replacing serviceable hardware.
Measure the mounting space
Record slide length, closed depth, side clearance and face-frame setback. Match load rating and bracket requirements to the new pair’s drawing.
Steps
Remove the empty drawer
Extend it and operate the release levers as its slide instructions show, supporting both sides. Mark the old rail positions before unscrewing.
Remove the old rails
Unscrew both cabinet and drawer members. Keep left and right identified. Repair stripped mounting holes before fitting new hardware.
Mark the new reference lines
Use the new slide drawing for height, setback and clearances. Mark both sides from the same datum; the old holes are not automatically correct.
Fit the cabinet members
Support each rail level and parallel to its mate. Drill depth-limited pilots and fit the specified screws through adjustment slots, initially just snug.
Fit the drawer members
Separate members only as instructed. Position both at identical height and setback, then secure with screws that cannot break through the drawer sides.
Insert and adjust
Align both rails and slide the drawer in evenly. Test empty, adjust height or setback in the slots to remove rubbing, then install the remaining required fixing screws.
Test with a gradual load
Open and close repeatedly, then add normal contents within the slide and cabinet ratings. Verify secure screws, even gaps and no sag, binding or unintended release.
Open and close repeatedly, then add normal contents within the slide and cabinet ratings. Verify secure screws, even gaps and no sag, binding or unintended release.
Tips
Replace both sides together
Do not combine unmatched old and new slide members.
Do not force a bind
Binding points to spacing, squareness or alignment, not a need for a harder push.
Use the specified heads
A protruding screw head can catch the moving rail.