How to fix a stuck Drawer Runner

We take you through step by step to make sure your Drawer Runners are always operating smoothly.

What you’ll need

It couldn’t be simpler to fix this problem, and what you’ll need to complete it may already be commonplace in a home or business:

·         Screwdriver

·         Lubricant Spray (WD-40 etc.)

·         Tape Measure

Step 1:

Once you have removed everything from the drawer/s, the first step is to remove it from the cabinet.

Most drawers with Drawer Runners have the same removal method, just pull the drawer all the way open, then lift up at about 30 degrees to disconnect the wheel from the Drawer Runner track.

Depending on the type of drawer/s you have, there might be extra steps to this process.

Step 2:

Now you will need to remove the slide tracks from the drawer using your screwdriver.

These screws are incredibly small, so be sure to do this carefully so that you can keep all of the screws together.

Step 3:

Now that the drawer has been removed, you can determine what the issue might be with your Drawer Runner.

The next steps are dependent on what the issue with your Drawer Runner is:

If you find that there may be some dirt or residue causing the tracks of the Drawer Runner to become stuck, then simply cleaning them should help.

If you notice any visible damage, it is recommended that you replace the runner, just remember to get the exact same dimensions for all parts as the original runner.

But, if neither of the previous issues is the case, then proceed with the next steps.

Step 4:

You now need to check if the guide tracks and the wheel tracks are misaligned.

You can check the guide tracks by looking at the screw holes where the guide tracks were that you just removed. If they are more than half an inch apart, you will need to drill new holes closer together.

If your screw holes are in the right place, or you’ve drilled new ones, take a measurement of the distance between them, and make sure it matches with the height of the shared point between the cabinet and drawer.

Step 5:

Now turn your attention back to the slide tracks that were removed earlier.

There are a few options that you can use to lubricate your slide tracks, including Lubricant Sprays, White Grease or Oil Lubricant. However, an industry tip for long last results is to use Candle Wax or Paraffin Wax.

Step 6:

It’s now time to reattach the tracks and place the drawer back into the cabinet.

Make sure you open and close the drawer a few times to properly test it, if it opens and closes smoothly, then the job is complete.

Follow these simple steps and you should end up with Drawer Runners that operate smoothly time and time again. If you’re in need of a replacement, you can shop our range of Drawer Runners here, or opt for our Drawer Runner Packs for an all-in-one solution.