how to install soft close ball bearing drawer slides

Installing Soft Close Ball Bearing Drawer Slides

If you are tired of noisy, stubborn drawers, replacing old slides with ball bearing drawer slides can be a great solution. They're designed to provide smoother operation, even under heavy loads, and can be installed quickly and easily. Additionally, soft close feature can improve your drawer's safety and life span by reducing slam and wear. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of installing soft close ball bearing drawer slides.

The installation of soft close ball bearing drawer slides is straightforward, and most people can manage it without help from a professional. First, the drawer should be removed from the furniture or cabinet carefully. Then, the old drawer slides need to be removed, making sure not to damage the wood or screws. The new soft close ball bearing drawer slides can then be installed using screws provided with the slides, making sure to mark and pre-drill the holes to prevent any splitting of wood.

What You'll Need:

- Measuring tape

- Pencil

- Straight edge or square

- Drill

- Driver

- Screws

- Drawer Slides

Step 1 - Measure the Drawer

Before you start, measure your drawer's length, width, and height. You will need the dimensions to select the right size drawer slide, and also for positioning the slides. Typically, you will need a slide that is equal to or less than the length of the drawer.

Step 2 - Order the Drawer Slides

Once you have taken measurements, order the soft close ball bearing drawer slides. Be sure to check with the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you have selected the right "left" or "right" drawer slide.

Step 3 - Remove the Old Slides

Remove the old drawer slides by carefully pulling them from the drawer and cabinet mounting areas. Use pliers or a screwdriver to assist you in removing the mounting screws.

Step 4 - Clean the Cabinet and Drawer

Use a cleaning agent to wipe any debris, dust, and stains from the drawer and the cabinet areas where the new slide will be installed. Make sure that the surface is dry before installation.

Step 5 - Install the Cabinet Side of the New Slide

Take the drawer slide's cabinet side and place it against the cabinet's inner sidewall. Align the front of the slide flush with the drawer's front edge, and use a pencil to mark the screw holes' position. Use a drill to make pilot holes in the cabinet's sidewall then attach the slide to the cabinet with screws.

Step 6 - Install Drawer Side of the New Slide

Place the drawer slide close to the cabinet slide and secure the drawer's outer sidewall with screws. Make sure that the drawer side slide is level and straight before attaching it to the drawer.

Step 7 - Repeat for the Second Slide

Repeat the process for the second slide, but make sure that both slides are aligned to avoid any gaps or misalignment. The soft-close mechanism should be on the slide's outer side, and the screw heads should be recessed.

Step 8 - Check Functionality

Finally, check the drawer's functionality by sliding it in and out of the cabinet. The soft-close mechanism should activate 1-2 inches before the drawer fully closes. Check that the drawer is straight and secure and adjust the slide if any issues occur.

Conclusion

By installing soft close ball bearing drawer slides, you can improve your drawer's performance and enjoy a safer, quieter experience. With some simple tools and careful attention to the instructions, the process can be achieved in no time, and your drawers will be protected from damage and use-related wear.