How to Take Drawers Out of Metal Filing Cabinet

Introduction

Metal filing cabinets are sturdy and secure storage solutions for organizing documents and other paperwork. However, over time the drawers can become stuck or difficult to open and close properly. Taking the drawers completely out of a metal filing cabinet allows for easy access to clean the slides, lubricate parts, and make any necessary repairs for smooth operation. This guide will walk through the step-by-step process of removing drawers from a metal filing cabinet using common household tools.

Safety Tips

When taking drawers out of a filing cabinet, follow these safety tips:

• Use caution when handling drawers to avoid pinched fingers or hands. The drawers can be very heavy.
• Wear gloves for grip and hand protection when removing drawers.
• Work slowly and carefully to avoid accidents. Don’t force anything.
• Lay the filing cabinet on its back or side when removing drawers. This provides stability.
• Clear ample workspace around the filing cabinet.
• Follow all manufacturer instructions if available.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following tools and supplies before starting:

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Needle nose pliers
• Work gloves
• Flashlight
• Replacement slides or hardware (if needed)

Make sure the tools are in good condition for this task. Worn tip screwdrivers can damage screw heads.

Removing Drawers Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to safely take drawers out of a metal filing cabinet:

1. Empty the Drawers

Before starting, empty the drawers completely. Remove all files, folders and contents. This lightens the drawer for easier handling.

2. Lay the Cabinet Down

Gently lay the filing cabinet on its back or side. This provides a stable base for removing the drawers without the whole cabinet tipping over.

Use care to avoid scratching or damaging the cabinet finish. Place a blanket or towels underneath if needed.

3. Locate Screws or Fasteners

Examine the inner drawer frame for any visible screws or fasteners. These typically attach the drawer slides to the cabinet.

Also check near the cabinet rails for any access holes to reach mounting screws. Refer to the owner’s manual if you have it.

4. Remove Mounting Screws

Use a screwdriver to remove any screws or fasteners attaching the slides. This may take some force if the screws are tight or rusty.

Turn screws counterclockwise to loosen and remove. Set the hardware aside in a container so it doesn’t get lost.

5. Release Slide Lever

Many filing cabinet drawers have spring-loaded levers near the rails that release the slides. Push down and hold the lever while pulling out the drawer.

This disengages the slide tabs from the cabinet rails so the drawer can detach.

6. Pull Out the Drawer

With all screws removed and the slide lever pressed down, carefully pull the drawer outward. Use steady force and wiggle gently if needed.

The entire slide assembly and drawer should release from the cabinet frame rails.

Set the removed drawer aside safely out of the way.

7. Detach Drawer Slides

With the drawer removed, the slide rails are accessible. Locate any remaining screws or clips attaching the slides to the drawer.

Remove the hardware to fully detach the slide mechanisms from the drawer box. Set parts aside.

8. Clean and Inspect

With everything disassembled, thoroughly clean all parts. Use a mild cleaner and lint-free cloths.

Inspect slides and rails for damage or wear. Measure slide lengths if replacement is needed.

Lubricate slide contact points with silicone spray or lithium grease so they glide smoothly.

9. Reassemble Drawer

Reattach drawer slides using the original hardware in the original locations. Follow any manufacturer instructions.

Slide the drawer back into the cabinet rails. Keep slide levers depressed. Align the slide tabs correctly in the rail channels.

Replace any access screws in the cabinet frame to secure everything.

10. Test Drawer Operation

With the drawer reinstalled, open and close it a few times. It should glide smoothly. Adjust slides or tighten hardware if needed.

Repeat steps for remaining drawers. Then stand the filing cabinet upright when finished.

Tips for Difficult Drawers

Some filing cabinet drawers can be stubborn and refuse to come out easily. Try these tips if running into issues removing a stuck drawer:

• Tap sides with a mallet – This may jostle and loosen a jammed drawer. Avoid hitting too forcefully.
• Spray lubricant on slides – Lubricate stuck contact points then gently work the drawer.
• Loosen rail screws – Relieve any tight squeezing of the drawer.
• Bend metal clips – Use pliers to detach any clasps securing the slide tabs.
• Shimmy drawer box – Hold cabinet steady and wiggle drawer box side-to-side.
• Look for hidden clips – Some cabinets have small spring clips between rails and slides.
• Watch for lock tabs – Locks may block a drawer even if unlocked.

Use patience and care when dealing with a troublesome stuck filing cabinet drawer. Stop if any part is bending or becoming damaged.

Installing New Drawer Slides

Over time, filing cabinet drawer slides can wear out or break. If the slides are damaged or too worn to operate properly, replacement is necessary. Follow these steps to install new drawer slide hardware:

Choose Proper Slide Type

Filing cabinet slides come in various types depending on the specific cabinet. Common styles include:

• Full extension – Slides extend fully for total access to the drawer.
• Over travel – Slides extend past the drawer depth even more.
• Friction slide – Very basic slide held by friction and gravity.
• Ball bearing – Uses small ball bearings between two slide shafts for smooth gliding.

Refer to the original slides or owner’s manual specifications to select replacement hardware correctly. Measure the original slides and get same length.

Detach Old Slides

Follow the steps previously described to fully remove the drawer from the cabinet. Take out all old slide hardware.

Use a degreaser or solvent on a rag to thoroughly clean the cabinet rails and drawer box. Remove any debris or residue.

Install New Slides

Attach the new slides according to the manufacturer instructions. Generally, one piece secures to the side of the drawer while the other rail screws into the cabinet frame.

Proper alignment is critical. Measure and test that the drawer correctly fits in the closed and extended positions. Make any necessary adjustments.

Lubricate Contact Points

Use silicone spray or lithium grease to liberally lubricate the sliding contact points between the two slide shafts. This enables smooth, easy operation.

Avoid over-spray that could leak and stain files. Wipe any excess lubricant.

Test Drawer Operation

With the new slides installed, repeatedly open and close the drawer to test function. It should glide effortlessly without rubbing or sticking.

If any issues, check alignment and make adjustments. Tighten any loose hardware. Confirm the slides are lubricated adequately.

Filing Cabinet Maintenance

Proper filing cabinet maintenance keeps the drawers operating smoothly for years and prevents the headache of stuck, jammed drawers. Follow these important maintenance tips:

• Use drawer liners to protect surfaces and reduce friction.
• Regularly lubricate slide contact points and roller wheels.
• Keep cabinet level and on a flat surface.
• Avoid overloading drawers which strains the slides.
• Open and close drawers gently using handles. Don’t yank out forcefully.
• Inspect slides and rollers periodically for wear and damage.
• Clean slide rails and rollers to prevent debris buildup.
• Tighten loose screws and hardware as needed.
• Gently straighten any bent drawer parts for proper alignment.

Like any frequently used item, filing cabinets work better when properly maintained and kept in good working order. A few minutes inspecting and lubricating goes a long way to preventing problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tools do I need to remove filing cabinet drawers?

You’ll need standard screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips), needle nose pliers, work gloves, and a flashlight. Have replacement slides available if the old ones are broken.

How do I remove stuck rollers from drawer slides?

Pry off end caps with a flathead screwdriver to access the roller wheels. Gently pry wheels out of the slide channel. Replace if worn, cracked or jammed.

Should I lubricate ball bearing drawer slides?

Yes, lubricate contact points between the two slide shafts. Avoid spraying directly onto the ball bearings inside.

What if cabinet rails have no visible mounting screws?

Look inside the drawer box for access holes to reach rail screws. Some models hide screws underneath slide cover trim.

My cabinet has a locking bar that blocks the top drawer. What should I do?

Retract the locking bar mechanism before attempting to remove the top drawer. The bar sleeve needs to be fully recessed.

Can I change 2-drawer filing cabinet slides to full-extension?

Yes, full extension slides generally adapt to any filing cabinet for fuller access. Measure the originals first to get the correct replacements.

Why does my drawer keep falling off the slides when pulled out?

This is likely due to broken or missing slide lock tabs that secure the slide sections when extended. Replace tabs or entire slides.

Conclusion

Removing stuck drawers from a metal filing cabinet allows cleaning and replacing old slides to restore smooth operation. While it can be a difficult process, taking it slow with the proper tools minimizes frustration. Always use care when handling drawers to avoid pinches or falls. K

Keeping filing cabinet drawers properly lubricated and maintained prevents sliding issues before they start. But when drawers do stick or become jammed, follow the process outlined to detach them fully from the cabinet. New drawer slides are simple to install once the old ones are removed. With some patience and elbow grease, sticky drawers and filing headaches become a thing of the past.