How to Remove Metal Filing Cabinet Drawers

Gather Necessary Tools

First, make sure you have the right tools on hand before starting to remove the drawers:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Needle nose pliers
• Flashlight
• Hammer (optional)

Having these basic tools will allow you to access and remove the various screws, clips, and rails that hold the drawers in place. Make sure the screwdrivers fit snugly into the screw heads to avoid stripping them.

Remove Drawer Faceplate

The drawer faceplate is the front panel that you actually pull to open the drawer. Removing this gives you access to the inner slider mechanisms.

• Locate any visible screws on the faceplate and remove them with the appropriate screwdriver. There may be some hidden underneath drawer label holders or caps – pry these off carefully with a flathead screwdriver.
• With the screws removed, gently pull and wiggle the faceplate to release any remaining clips or catches. Be careful not to bend or warp the faceplate.
• Detach the faceplate completely and set it aside safely.

With the drawer front removed, you now have clear access to the internal slider hardware.

Remove Slides and Rails

Filing cabinet drawers are attached internally on either side to metal slider tracks and rails. Unscrewing these allows the drawer box to be lifted out.

• On each side, unscrew the bolts that anchor the slides to the cabinet body using a screwdriver.
• Carefully remove each slide track and set them aside. Make note of their original positions.
• Do the same for any rails, removing the screws or pins holding them in place so the entire sliding assembly can be detached.

With the slider mechanism removed on both sides, the drawer unit should now be disconnected from the cabinet body.

Lift Out Drawer Box

With the sliders, rails, and faceplate removed, the drawer box itself can now be lifted out:

• Locate any remaining screws or clips along the top or bottom of the drawer box. Remove these with a screwdriver.
• Lift the drawer box up and out, being cautious of any hanging wires or catches.
• Set the detached drawer box in a safe place.

Make sure to save any small removable parts like clips, caps, or screws for reinstallation later.

Reinstall Drawers

To reinstall the drawers after removing them, follow these steps:

• Set the drawer box back into the cabinet rails and slide tracks. Make sure the roller wheels sit properly on the tracks.
• Reattach the slider rails and slide tracks using the original screw holes and hardware.
• Replace any top/bottom screws, catches, or clips to anchor the drawer in place.
• Reattach the drawer front faceplate and any original faceplate screws.
• Test opening and closing the drawer to make sure it operates smoothly once fully reassembled.

And that’s it! With the right tools and techniques, removing metal filing cabinet drawers is straightforward. Just be sure to work carefully and methodically. Keeping hardware organized makes reinstallation much simpler.

Frequently Asked Questions About Removing Metal File Cabinet Drawers

How do I unlock a stuck drawer?

If a filing cabinet drawer is stuck and won’t open, try these methods:

• Gently but firmly pull and wiggle the handle to try to loosen the slide tracks.
• Insert a flathead screwdriver into the drawer front and gently pry upwards to raise it just slightly. This may free a jammed drawer.
• Use pliers to gently grasp and work the drawer sides back and forth. The tension may release a stuck drawer.
• If a drawer is locked, locate the locking mechanism on the front or side and disengage it with a small key or combination lock release button.

What if the slides fall inside the cabinet when removing drawers?

If the slide rails or slides become detached and fall into the cabinet interior, use a flashlight to locate them. You can then use a long hook or reach grabber tool to carefully extricate them. Just take care not to scratch the cabinet interior if fishing around for fallen parts.

Should I lubricate the slides when reinstalling drawers?

Yes, applying a small amount of lubricant to metal filing cabinet drawer slides can help them glide smoothly after reinstallation. Use a silicone or teflon-based lubricant or powder. Avoid oil-based lubricants which can attract dust and debris over time.

How can I get replacement cabinet keys?

If you’ve lost keys for a locked filing cabinet, a locksmith can help replicate new keys. Just remove the lock cylinder and take it to the locksmith. Cabinet manufacturers may also retain master key codes on file for duplication. If the manufacturer is unknown, a locksmith can still make a key by disassembling the lock.

What do I do if my cabinet drawers are bent?

Bent drawers can be repaired. Lightly bent metal fronts or sides can often be carefully bent back into shape by hand or with gentle hammer taps and a block of wood. For badly warped drawers, a sheet metal shop can heat, reshape, and re-flatten the warped sections.

Conclusion

Removing drawers from metal filing cabinets allows for deep cleaning, repairs, painting, or hardware replacements. With the proper tools and careful technique, drawers can be detached and removed as needed. Follow each step to safely disconnect the faceplate, slides, and rails before lifting out the drawer box. Keep all hardware organized for simpler reinstallation. With patience and care, filing cabinet drawers can be removed and reassembled smoothly.