ᐅ My KALLAX shelf leans after installing new casters – how can I fix this?

Hello everyone,

I recently replaced the casters on my IKEA KALLAX shelving unit to make it easier to move. However, after installing the new casters, I noticed that the unit now leans forward noticeably, even though it stood straight before. I have checked whether the casters are properly screwed in, and that seems to be the case. The casters themselves are all the same size from the manufacturer. The unit stands on a fairly level laminate floor.

Does anyone have experience with how to get a KALLAX completely level again if it tips or leans after changing the casters? I suspect that the weight or slightly different caster dimensions might be the cause, but I’m not sure how to adjust or fix it without taking everything apart again.

Thanks in advance for your tips!

lenpi schrieb:
I checked whether the casters were screwed in correctly, and that seems to be the case.

That’s an important first step! If the casters are properly attached, the tilt could indeed be caused by slight differences in caster height or installation variations.

Here is a detailed procedure you can follow step by step:

1. Check caster height: It’s best to use a caliper or tape measure to verify the height of each caster from the floor to the underside of the swivel mechanism. Some casters may be slightly taller or shorter, even if they come from the same manufacturer.

2. Rule out floor unevenness: Even if the floor appears level, there can be minor irregularities that cause the shelf to tilt. For example, place a spirit level or a long board at floor level in different spots to be sure.

3. Inspect mounting hardware and base plates: Check whether the threaded stem was fully screwed in during installation or if it has pushed down slightly under load.

4. Adjust casters relative to each other: If one caster is taller, try screwing it back slightly so all wheels have exactly the same contact with the floor.

5. Add supplementary material: If the shelf still leans after all adjustments, you can stick thin felt or rubber pads under the shorter casters to balance them out.

If the shelf is made of wood that deforms under load, this can of course worsen the problem.

Maybe you could describe exactly what type of casters were installed and whether they are metal or plastic? That would help assess the stability.

lenpi schrieb:
Does anyone have experience with how to get a KALLAX completely straight again when it tilts or stands unevenly after changing the casters?

Hello, here is a structured guide on how to approach this issue:

1. Height check with a spirit level: Place a spirit level on top of the shelving unit, both crosswise and lengthwise. This will show you which way it is tilting.

2. Measure the casters: Measure the height of each caster individually—small differences can add up. Pay close attention to the screw length and whether the casters are fully screwed in.

3. Compare caster models: Did you install exactly the same model of caster? IKEA casters often vary in height. Especially important: casters with built-in brakes can be slightly taller.

4. Tip: If you have different casters, get matching washers or small wooden blocks to compensate for height differences.

5. Check the load: Make sure the shelving is evenly loaded. Uneven weight distribution can also cause tilting.

6. Final step: If everything fits and the shelving still stands unevenly, check if the back panel is attached straight, as it stabilizes the unit.

Summary: Often, a combination of leveling, uniform casters, and shims helps to get the KALLAX perfectly straight again.

First, check that all legs are fully screwed in and rest evenly on the floor.

If one leg is shorter, you can adjust it or place a pad underneath.

LOGEMIN schrieb:
Check if the back panel is mounted straight, as it stabilizes the shelving unit.

That’s a good point I’d like to add. Often, the back panel is overlooked, but with the KALLAX, it not only provides stability but also helps keep the shelf in position.

If the back panel is crooked or not properly secured, it can cause the unit to tip.

Tip: Tighten the screws on the back panel and check if it sits flush with the shelf frame. Loosening can become more noticeable with movement.

Also, have you carefully checked the new casters to see if they are all exactly the same? Even small differences of one millimeter (0.04 inches) can affect the stability.

In addition to the casters, the position of the mounting screws for the casters can be crucial if the threads were screwed in to different depths.

Make sure your floor is truly level. Sometimes the issue isn’t with the shelf but with the surface beneath it. Small unevenness can be compensated for using felt pads.