ᐅ How do I install a base cabinet with drawer slides using the Ikea Metod system?

Created on: 3 Aug 2016 09:12
A
ARTAN64
Hello everyone,

I am currently working on assembling a base cabinet with drawer slides for my Ikea Metod kitchen project and have a detailed question: What is the best way to install the drawer slides correctly so that everything operates smoothly and the drawers lock in properly?

Specifically, I am interested in:
- Which screws and brackets are recommended for the guide rails in Metod?
- Is there a particular order for attaching the slides to the cabinet carcass and the drawer?
- How can potential fitting inaccuracies that might affect the sliding motion be avoided?
- Are any special tools advisable?

I have partly read the assembly instructions, but some parts are not entirely clear to me, especially regarding the fixing of the metal slides.

Thanks in advance for your help!
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ARTAN64
3 Aug 2016 17:08
RUBEN54 schrieb:

1. Preparation:
- Make sure all parts are complete

That’s a good tip. I opened the package right away yesterday and am now double-checking the screws.
Issac_kla2 schrieb:

My advice: Don’t just use the holes; pre-fix the parts and check with a spirit level and ruler.

Sounds reasonable, I was afraid the factory-drilled holes are often inaccurate. I’ll measure and if necessary, redrill or adjust.

One question: Is it better to fully tighten the guides before fitting the drawer, or should they be mounted loosely at first and then tightened after inserting the drawer to allow adjustments?
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minjan
3 Aug 2016 17:23
Attach loosely, then do a test fit, and finally tighten properly. This helps prevent jamming.
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praWarre69
4 Aug 2016 08:31
Hello ARTAN64,

I recently built a METOD base cabinet myself. One tip I can give you: take your time when attaching the drawer slides and start with only a few screws, testing repeatedly. With my first attempts, each drawer was a bit tricky, but once you get the slide precisely aligned, the drawers will glide like butter!

Also, it’s worth checking the glide elements. The thin plastic gliders on the metal track can sometimes shift slightly during delivery. Keep unhooking and checking to make sure everything is in its proper place.

Good luck – the next drawer will surely bring you satisfaction!
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barge
4 Aug 2016 10:59
Sometimes it helps to treat the drawer slides with a bit of silicone spray. This makes them glide more smoothly and reduces the chance of jamming. This is especially useful for minor misalignments.

But be careful: don’t use too much, as it can become greasy and attract dust.
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ARTAN64
4 Aug 2016 15:44
praWarre69 schrieb:

The thin plastic sliders on the metal track can sometimes shift slightly during shipment.

Thanks for the tip! I just checked and found that a small plastic clip on one of the tracks had indeed come loose a bit. I will keep this in mind for the following posts.
barge schrieb:

Sometimes it also helps to treat the drawer slides with a bit of silicone spray.

That sounds good; I will still try a test fitting and align the hook properly before spraying.

Thanks to everyone so far, this really clarifies the "Ikea mess"!