When to install Kaboodle drawer runners?

Question

We have gone through and assembled our pieces for the new kitchen. The confusion is when to put the drawer runners on. When assembling the cabinets, it doesn't mention the drawer runners as that is not the first step. Understandable. we are now at the putting the end panels on however in instructions in videos they don't have the runners added but in the printed instructions it shows them added. Which way should it be? just a bit confusing

Nailbag · Answer

Hi @Opal

I've built countless Kaboodle cabinets and unfortunately they are still quite lazy in more detail in a lot of their assembly instructions. I've never noticed any updated ones, but I tend to not look at them anymore.

I typically do the drawer runners last after end panels and benchtop. Then their facia panels and then any handles. Assembling in this order allows you to ensure your aligning the facias level to the end panels, side cabinet doors and square to the underside of the benchtop.

The runners have no impact on any other assembly like end panels as the runner screws are only about 10mm and don't protrude through the carcass sides.

If you haven't already got these, I highly recommend you get a 150mm combination square and 2 x decent adjustable clamps. The square allows you to set the depth of side panels, kickbaords for accurate constancy. Then you can clamp them into place, drill your pilot holes and fasten them with screws. You will find Kaboodle never give your nearly enough of the shorter 32mm screws (could be wrong about actual length) and way to many of the long screws. So, don't shortcut and just buy more shorter screws.

If and when your up to filler panels and striking some issues, come back to seek some help here as these are arguably the most troublesome. Especially if accuracy and finish cosmetics is important.

Nailbag

Dave-1 · Answer

Good Afternoon @Opal

Im thinking, well trying to remember way back to when I did my kaboodle cabinet. I think I installed the runners as soon as I had the cabinet together and in place. I do remember that I should have put the face on the drawers before the stone bech went in :) I managed it but would have been easier if I did the face before the stone turned up.

Dave

EricL · Answer

Hello @Opal

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your drawer runners.

When assembling drawer cabinets, I've always found it convenient putting the drawer runners in the cabinet first before anchoring the cabinet to the wall or to cabinets next to it. With the drawer cabinet freestanding and not yet attached to anything it makes it easier to manipulate, and you are not limited in your range of motion. This is of course my personal experience.

However, it is possible to install the drawer runners even after the cabinet has been anchored in place.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @Noyade for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric