Removing hardware from metal file cabinets is a common task when refurbishing or repairing old cabinets. With some simple tools and techniques, you can easily detach the handles, locks, slides, and other hardware components. Taking the time to properly remove hardware prevents damage to the cabinet body and allows you to fully restore or replace worn components.

Necessary Tools and Materials

Removing metal file cabinet hardware does not require fancy tools. With just a few basic items, you can complete the job:

• Screwdrivers – You’ll need standard and Phillips head screwdrivers in various sizes to remove screws. It helps to have screwdrivers with magnetic tips to prevent dropping screws into the cabinet.
• Pliers – Standard locking pliers or channel lock pliers help grip and turn stuck screws or hardware pieces.
• Hammer – A light ball peen hammer helps tap hardware loose if screws are stuck or corroded.
• WD-40 lubricant – This petroleum-based spray lubricates stuck parts and hinges to make hardware removal easier.
• Replacement hardware – Have new handles, locks, or slides ready to install after removing the old pieces.
• Rags – Keep some clean cloths or paper towels handy to wipe away grime and lubricant.
• Safety glasses – Wear protective eyewear in case metal pieces or screws go flying during removal.

Taking Off Cabinet Drawer Pulls

Detaching the hardware on file cabinet drawers is the first step in most hardware removal processes. Here is how to take off common metal pulls and handles:

1. Remove Visible Screws

• Examine the underside or edges of the drawer pull for exposed screw heads. Use a properly-sized Phillips or standard screwdriver to remove visible screws.
• On some modern pulls, you’ll find concealed set screws on the interior instead of obvious screws. Insert a thin screwdriver into the holes to loosen the set screws.

2. Wiggle and Twist the Pulls

• After removing visible screws, gently rock the pull back and forth to break the hardware free. Twisting the handle slightly helps release any adhesive or grime.
• If the pull does not detach easily, use a hammer to lightly tap the edges to jar it loose.

3. Clean Exposed Screw Holes

• Use a damp rag to wipe away any dirt, grease, or debris left behind in the open screw holes. Let the area fully dry.
• For stuck-on gunk, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to scrub the crevices clean.

4. Install New Hardware

• Insert replacement cabinet pulls into the clean screw holes. Reinstall screws in the original locations, tightening them snugly but not excessively.

Following these steps makes removing standard metal drawer pulls quick and easy. The same methods work for detaching aged handles or modern brushed nickel pulls.

Taking Off Cabinet Door Pulls

Eliminating door hardware requires a few extra considerations because the pulls are usually centered horizontally on the door panels. Here are some tips for removing file cabinet door handles:

1. Remove Visible Hardware Screws

• Completely detach all obvious screws located on the underside or backplate of the cabinet door handle.
• Use properly-fitting screwdrivers and ample elbow grease to eliminate all visible connecting hardware.

2. Check for Hidden Internal Screws

• After removing the obvious screws, see if there are any hidden set screws or bolts inside the grip area of the handle.
• These are designed to be undetectable but may require a thin screwdriver to remove.

3. Rock Handles Gently Side to Side

• With screws removed, gently rock the handle side to side to detach it. Be cautious not to bend or warp the door.
• Placing a rag between the handle and door helps prevent scratches or dents during removal.

4. Use Hammer Taps If Needed

• For stubborn, stuck handles, use light hammer taps directly behind the handle to jar it loose.
• Avoid hitting the door surfaces, focusing blows directly where the handle meets the door.

5. Clean Away Gunk on Door

• Use a damp cloth and mild solvent like diluted dish soap to remove any sticky residue left after taking off handles.
• For extreme grime, scrub with fine steel wool and solvent. Rinse and let dry fully.

6. Install Replacement Handles

• Center new handles over the existing handle screw holes. Anchor them into place with screws, tightening adequately but avoiding over-torquing.

With some care and proper tools, removing aged or damaged cabinet door handles is a relatively simple process. Take time fitting and aligning new handles for a seamless look.

Removing Lateral File Cabinet Slides

The sliding mechanisms inside file cabinet drawers commonly wear out or break over time. Replacing old, worn slides rejuvenates the function of lateral file cabinets. Here are tips for taking out existing slides:

1. Empty Drawers Completely

• Remove all contents from the problem drawer to allow full access to the slides. This prevents items from falling or jamming during slide removal.

2. Extend Slides Fully

• Pull the drawer completely out until the slides are fully extended. This exposes all hardware and gives room to work.

3. Remove Lower Rail Screws

• While supporting the extended drawer, remove the screws anchoring the slide’s lower rail to the drawer bottom.

4. Detach Upper Assembly Screws

• Next, remove the screws connecting the upper slide rail and wheel assembly to the cabinet interior.

5. Remove Entire Slide

• With all screws eliminated, carefully maneuver the entire slide unit out from the drawer side walls. Take care not to bend or warp the slide.

6. Clean Drawer Interior

• Use a vacuum, compressed air, and cloth to remove dust, debris, or lubricant residue inside the drawer box once slides are out.

7. Install New Slides

• Position the new slides approximately into place. Anchor them with screws in the pre-drilled locations. Test for smooth operation before reloading contents.

With basic tools and patience, replacing worn lateral file cabinet slides is a straightforward DIY project. Take measurements of the original slides before buying replacements.

Taking Off Old File Cabinet Locks

Over time, cabinet lock mechanisms can wear out, jam, or become damaged. Removing old, unusable locks is key before installing new locking hardware. Here’s how to detach common file cabinet locks:

1. Unlatch the Lock Manually

• If the lock still operates, unlock it manually via key or dial before removal. This helps avoid damaging components.

2. Remove any External Housing Screws

• Eliminate obvious external screws located on housings around spin dial or keyhole mechanisms. This allows you to access the lock cylinder.

3. Take Out Cylinder Retainer Screws

• Locate and remove the smaller retainer screws holding just the cylinder and tailpiece in place. These allow the entire core to detach.

4. Extract Lock Cylinder and Tailpiece

• With retainers removed, carefully slide out the lock cylinder along with the connected rectangular tailpiece.

5. Clean Out Lock Channel

• Use compressed air and a thin rag to remove debris from the empty cylinder channel space. Lubricate with a lightweight oil or WD-40.

6. Install New Lock Assembly

• Follow your new lock’s specific installation directions. Most attach by sliding the cylinder into place and replacing the retainer screws removed earlier.

Though daunting, removing old file cabinet lock mechanisms is totally doable for DIYers. Let a locksmith tackle any locks where you cannot access the cylinder.

Removing File Cabinet Shelf Support Pins

Many vertical file cabinets rely on adjustable shelf support pins to hold shelving. With use, these pins can bend, break, or become stuck. Taking pins out properly is key before replacing shelving components. Here are some tips:

1. Clear Shelf Contents

• Remove everything sitting on the shelf before attempting to detach it. This provides full access to the shelf pins.

2. Locate Locking Screws or Clips

• Examine pin ends for any small screws, clamps, or locking tabs. Remove these pieces first to unlock the pins.

3. Start Pins Moving with Gentle Taps

• Use a plastic mallet or hammer with cloth to lightly tap pins upwards, breaking static friction. Avoid hammering the cabinet body.

4.Twist Pins While Extracting

• As pins slide out, give them gentle clockwise and counterclockwise twists. This helps overcome friction as they withdraw.

5. Set Pins Aside Carefully

• Take care not to bend or damage pins during removal. Set them aside to use as templates for replacing broken pins.

6. Clean Pin Sockets

• Use compressed air and a thin rag to clear any dirt or debris from the now-empty pin sockets.

With minimal force and care, steel support pins can be removed fully intact for replacement. Seek help taking pins out if hammer taps do not work.

How to Remove Rivets from Metal File Cabinets

Rivets are sometimes used in file cabinets to attach corner gussets, hinges, and other non-moving parts. While very secure, rivets cannot be tightened over time like screws. Removing worn or failed rivets takes some additional tools and effort. Here’s how to do it safely:

1. Obtain a Hammer and Punch

• A basic hammer and center punch allows you to firmly dent rivet heads to shear them off. Always wear eye protection.

2. Mark Punch Location with Tape

• Place masking tape over the rivet head and use an automatic center punch to mark the exact center. This prevents glancing blows.

3. Use Steady, Moderate Force

• Hold the punch vertically on the marked rivet center. Use steady, moderate hammer force to dent and shear off the rivet head.

4. Drill Out Rivet Remains

• Once the head is off, use a drill bit slightly larger than the rivet shaft to drill away any remnants in the hole.

5. File Edges Smooth

• Carefully file any rough edges left around the empty rivet hole. Try to achieve a relatively smooth surface.

6. Clean Surrounding Area

• With debris cleared, wipe the area with a damp rag and let fully dry. Apply touch-up paint if needed.

With care and patience, rivets on metal file cabinets can be removed fully to allow hardware replacements and repairs. Avoid applying excessive hammer force during the process.

Troubleshooting Difficult Hardware Removal

Removing stuck metal file cabinet hardware can be challenging at times, especially with older cabinets. Here are some troubleshooting tips if pieces refuse to detach easily:

Use Penetrating Oil on Stubborn Screws

• If screws simply spin in place rather than loosening, apply penetrating lubricant like WD-40. Let it soak for 15+ minutes before trying again.

Allow Frozen Hardware to Soak in Boiling Water

• For hardware frozen in place, bring water to a boil, pour into a nylon bag, and place on the stuck components to loosen the bonding.

Use Hollow Punch Extractors for Broken Screws

• For screw heads that break off during removal, use extractors that drill into and grip the shafts to unscrew them.

Cut Off Rusted or Damaged Hardware

• Hardware damaged beyond salvaging and repair sometimes must be sawed or cut off for removal. Use a hacksaw or Dremel tool carefully.

Apply Low, Steady Heat to Loosen Bonded Hardware

• A simple hair dryer or heat gun applied lightly around stuck hardware helps loosen bonded grime without damaging finishes.

Seek Professional Help for Security Locks

• If dealing with one-way security screws or complex lock mechanisms, consider hiring a locksmith to remove and replace them properly.

With persistence and care, even the most stuck metal hardware can be removed successfully. Seeking professional help is wise if you lack the proper tools and experience.

Conclusion

Removing aged or damaged hardware is an essential first step before restoring vintage metal file cabinets. The process simply requires common tools, patience, and care to avoid harming cabinets. With the proper techniques, even novice DIYers can successfully detach old cabinet pulls, locks, slides, and shelf pins in preparation for replacement. Refer to guides and take things slow whenever hardware proves stubborn. In some instances, assistance from a locksmith or cabinet restoration specialist may be advisable. But the vast majority of general cabinet hardware removal is doable for those who proceed carefully. Follow these tips to freshen up those filing cabinets and get organized.

How to Remove Metal File Cabinet Hardware – FAQ

Removing hardware from metal file cabinets is often necessary for cleaning, repairs, or updates. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about taking off common metal file cabinet hardware safely and properly:

What tools do I need to remove metal file cabinet hardware?

You will need standard screwdrivers, pliers, penetrating oil, rags, a hammer, and eye protection at minimum. Other helpful tools include magnetic screwdrivers, drill/driver, hollow punch extractors, hacksaw, and a heat gun.

How do I remove stubborn screws on handles or locks?

For stuck screws, apply penetrating lubricant like WD-40 and let it soak 15+ minutes. Tap handles gently with a hammer to jar them loose. If screws just spin in place, use pliers for grip and add slow, steady torque. Damaged screws may need to be extracted or drilled out.

What is the best way to detach old lateral file cabinet slides?

Fully extend the slide, then detach both upper and lower rail screws. Remove the slide carefully without bending. Clean any lubricant residue before installing replacement slides. Measure the original slides first to get perfect sizing.

Should I try removing complex security lock mechanisms myself?

No – if dealing with high-security locks, unique keys, or one-way screw fasteners, it’s best to have a professional locksmith detach and replace them. Attempting removal yourself risks damaging the cabinet or being unable to reinstall new locks properly.

How can I get rid of the gunk and residue left behind after removing handles?

Use a damp rag and mild solvent like diluted dish soap or rubbing alcohol to scrub away sticky residue. For tough grime, use fine steel wool and solvent, then wipe the area clean. Avoid any solvents that can damage paint or finishes.

What’s the trick to getting old support pins out?

Lightly tap pins upward with a plastic mallet to get them moving. Apply gentle twisting motions as you extract them slowly. Remove any small locking screws or clamps at pin ends prior to tapping. Take care not to bend or damage pins during removal.

Is it possible to remove rivets without damaging the surrounding material?

Yes, with care. Use a punch to dent and shear off rivet heads. Drill out the center remnants carefully with a bit slightly larger than the shaft. File any rough edges smooth. Touch up paint/finish if needed. Avoid applying excessive hammer force.

How can I avoid scratches and dents when taking off cabinet door handles?

Place a rag between the handle and door to prevent direct contact during removal. Rock handles gently side-to-side rather than pulling. Use light hammer taps directly behind the handle instead of hitting door surfaces.

What should I do if hardware removal efforts start damaging the cabinet?

Stop work immediately to avoid making the situation worse. Examine why the hardware won’t detach – it may require disassembly rather than removal. Seek professional help if you lack the proper tools and experience for the job.