Fitting locking drawer slides involves installing separate components onto the cabinet and the drawer, then joining them together. This process ensures the drawer glides smoothly and locks securely in place when closed.
Here's a breakdown of the steps:
Understanding Locking Drawer Slides
Locking drawer slides, often used in utility applications like truck toolboxes or heavy-duty storage, feature a mechanism that holds the drawer closed, preventing it from opening unintentionally during movement or on inclines. They typically consist of two main parts that separate:
- Cabinet Member: Attaches to the inside of the cabinet or frame.
- Drawer Member: Attaches to the side of the drawer.
Tools and Materials
To install locking drawer slides, you'll typically need:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Locking Slides | The slides themselves |
| Screws | For attaching slides (usually included) |
| Tape Measure | For accurate placement |
| Pencil | For marking screw hole positions |
| Level | To ensure slides are straight |
| Drill/Screwdriver | For driving screws |
Installing the Cabinet Member
The first step is to install the longer cabinet members into the cabinet opening.
- Determine Placement: Decide on the height and position of the slides inside the cabinet. Use a tape measure and pencil to mark a level line where the top or bottom edge of the slide will sit. Account for the drawer height and any necessary clearance.
- Position the Slide: Align the cabinet member of the slide along your marked line. Ensure the front of the drawer slide is flush with the front edge of the cabinet opening or face frame. This is crucial for the drawer to close correctly and for the locking mechanism to engage. As noted in the reference, make sure the front is flush with the front of the "center jam side jam."
- Mark and Drill (Optional): Mark the screw hole positions through the slide. You may pre-drill pilot holes, especially in hardwoods, to prevent splitting.
- Attach the Slide: Secure the cabinet member to the cabinet side using the appropriate screws. Drive screws into all designated mounting holes for stability.
- Repeat: Install the cabinet member on the opposite side of the cabinet, ensuring it is level with the first slide and parallel to it.
Installing the Drawer Member
Before attaching the drawer member to the drawer, you typically need to separate it from the cabinet member.
- Separate the Members: With the cabinet member installed, you need to detach the inner drawer member. Most locking slides have a release lever or button (often blue or black) that you press or lift. Once released, you can "slot click and slide out" the drawer member from the cabinet member, as described in the reference.
- Position on Drawer: Place the separated drawer member on the side of the drawer. Position it correctly based on the height of the cabinet slides, usually flush with the bottom edge of the drawer side or slightly recessed. Some drawers may require a block or spacer behind the slide for correct alignment with the cabinet member.
- Mark and Drill (Optional): Mark the screw hole locations on the drawer side and pre-drill if necessary.
- Attach to Drawer: Secure the drawer member to the side of the drawer using screws. Use all mounting points for maximum weight capacity.
- Repeat: Install the drawer member on the opposite side of the drawer, ensuring it is parallel to the first and correctly aligned.
Testing and Adjustment
Once both sets of slides are installed:
- Insert the Drawer: Align the drawer members with the cabinet members and gently push the drawer into the cabinet. The slides should engage smoothly.
- Test Movement: Open and close the drawer fully. It should glide easily.
- Test Locking Mechanism: Push the drawer fully closed. The locking mechanism should engage, holding the drawer securely. To open, you'll typically need to push or pull a release lever on the slide itself.
- Adjustments: If the drawer is stiff, rubs, or doesn't close/lock correctly, check the alignment and levelness of the slides. Adjust screw tightness or reposition the slides slightly if needed.
By following these steps and ensuring the slides are correctly aligned and flush with the cabinet front, you can effectively fit your locking drawer slides for secure and smooth operation.
