ᐅ My KALLAX unit is squeaking after reassembling the doors and rollers – any tips?

Created on: 2 Jul 2020 09:13
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Ywanne
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Ywanne
2 Jul 2020 09:13
Hello everyone, I need your advice. I recently installed new doors and rollers on my IKEA KALLAX unit. Since then, the whole shelf squeaks a lot when sliding the doors and also around the rollers. I have tightened all the screws and checked for any misalignment – but that didn’t really help. Does anyone know this issue? Are there any tricks to stop the squeaking without having to completely dismantle everything again? It almost sounds like the rollers or hinges are rubbing against metal or wood somewhere. I would appreciate any tips, especially if you recommend specific lubricants or assembly methods. Thanks in advance!
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ixlu1
2 Jul 2020 09:42
Oh yes, I know that very well! The squeaking noise from KALLAX doors after installation is annoying but definitely fixable! 🙂 Usually, it’s because the screws are either slightly too tight or too loose. Here’s a tip: loosen the screws a little, then tighten them again – this balances the stress. And of course, very important: lubricant! I like to use a bit of silicon spray, which makes the rollers and hinges quiet in no time! Give it a try, it always helps me a lot 🙂 Good luck!
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Parbo
2 Jul 2020 10:17
The squeaking of KALLAX doors with rollers can have several causes, so I prefer to approach the issue in a structured way: 1. First, it is essential to check the hinge points and rollers. Often, the plastic rollers and metal pins create minimal wear due to friction. 2. Is the squeaking really coming from the rollers or the hinges? 3. I recommend lubricating the connections of the hinges and rollers with dry graphite powder if possible, since silicone oil can attract dust over time. Alternatively, a Teflon spray can help. 4. Important: Slightly lift the KALLAX doors so the rollers are not fully loaded, and test the movement. 5. Also check whether the rollers run perfectly straight and are not mounted slightly crooked! Question: Are the rollers fully screwed in from underneath, or are they just inserted? That can make a difference.
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reoWilhelm
2 Jul 2020 10:59
Parbo schrieb:
Are the casters fully screwed in from underneath, or are you just inserting them?

Questions like these are invaluable! 🙂 I also experimented a bit with the casters on my KALLAX and found that they need to be securely fastened. Otherwise, they squeak like old brakes. Adding a bit of lubricant helps, and then at most you’ll hear a satisfied little crackle from the lubrication! 😉
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le_jan
2 Jul 2020 11:33
Check the rollers for waviness or damage. If any are found, arrange for replacements. Slightly loosen the hinges, then tighten them again. Use a lubricant with PTFE, not oil. That is sufficient.
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Ramon4
2 Jul 2020 12:08
Hello Ywanne, I understand your frustration – such squeaking can be really annoying. Especially with KALLAX, assembling the doors and rollers can often be a bit tricky. I would recommend going through the following steps: 1. Check if any plastic parts on the rollers are rubbing slightly against wood or metal during assembly – using fine sandpaper gently on the contact point can help. 2. Then apply a thin layer of light oil or special furniture glide wax, but be careful not to use too much, as that can attract dirt. 3. Make sure the door is positioned exactly at a right angle to the KALLAX unit, otherwise stress and noise can develop. 4. Test that all screws are flush but not overly tightened. 5. And another tip: sometimes wrapping the rollers lightly with Teflon tape helps reduce friction. Hope this helps you!