Replies

1. 
   mlbfreestyle | Oct 04, 2004 09:31pm | #1

   I have used (very recently) some nylon glide tape available from several ww supply stores.  Try Rockler and Woodcraft.  It works well to reduce the friction.  Won't be like ball-bearing glides but a very quick and effective solution.

   Apply this stuff to the carcass guides/runners.

2. 
   BarryR | Oct 04, 2004 09:31pm | #2

   Depending on how the drawers are constructed, there are several options.  A bottom mounted center guide might be the easiest to retrofit.  You can make it from wood or you can buy a metal or plastic under drawer guide.  Having at least 3/4" betwen the drawer bottom & the frame would make this a lot easier.  If you can tell us more about the drawers, we might be able to make some specific suggestions.

3. 
   Julmer | Oct 04, 2004 10:28pm | #3

   Before you invest in expensive tape or messy lubricants you might want to try waxing the runners/contact surface.

   I have made a number of furniture pieces that have traditional solid wood drawers that have no slide mechanisms. I keep several old white candles in my shop just for these projects. Firmly rub the candle on the contact surface on the drawer and on the cabinet/opening. For a few weeks a little of the wax flakes off, but after some use it goes away and the drawers work easily for years before I have to rewax.

4. 
   jackplane | Oct 04, 2004 10:36pm | #4

   Regular white or black iron on veneer tape works very well, the vinyl stuff like Ikea's. Cheap too.

5. 
   eddiefromAustralia | Oct 05, 2004 12:09am | #5

   Rich,

   sounds as though the drawer slips may need replacing, but try wax first,  or check that the back/front haven't separated from the sides, so the drawer is now wider than the opening.

   Once again, wax is the first choice,

   Good luck,

   eddie

6. 
   WayneL5 | Oct 05, 2004 12:20am | #6

   I vote for wax, too.  You might also want to install a stop so the drawers can't be pulled out all the way and fall.  The easiest stop is to make a little block, say 3/4 x 3/4 x 1½.  Drill a small hole towards one end.  Screw it to the inside back top of the drawer.  After the drawer is inserted, swing it up so it sticks above the drawer and snug the screw.

7. 
   vern | Oct 05, 2004 05:31am | #7

   I'm going to tell you what I've been using for 10 years or more. I buy these plastic drywall corner protectors (get the non-adhesive style) you do need a verticle support for these and that is what I fasten them to-- I set my brad gun at the right pressure so the head of the brad decn't go all the way thru-- if it sticks out a little I just put it home with my little balpean- they don't take up much room, take a lot of weight and last

   making sawdust
8. 
   nikkiwood | Oct 07, 2004 02:42am | #8

   The wax, nylon guides, etc will help.

   For bottom mounted metal glides that can be retrofitted to old drawers, have a look at Accuride 1029, which come in a variety of lengths. They work well if you have the right kind of drawer.