How to fix sliding keyboard shelf?

[georgebriansky]

I have installed sliding drawers on a couple of occasions successfully. I have now installed a 1550mm shelf for computer keyboards but it is not sliding freely, seems to jam about half way in. It could be I was not accurate in cutting the shelf or is 1550mm too long for the drawer sliders.

Any advice welcome.

[EricL]

Hello @georgebriansky 

Oversized drawers can lead to functional issues like sticking, wobbling, or premature slide failure. If using a standard drawer slide, follow the 1.5x rule: drawer width should not exceed 1.5 times the slide length. For example, if you have a 450mm drawer slide your drawer width will be 675mm. If you were to past this length you will start to run into the issues mentioned earlier. I propose installing a middle panel and cutting the drawer in half and making two drawers instead.

If you can tell us what you are using the drawer for, we'll try to provide more recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[georgebriansky]

Hi and thank you for your reply. I must have expressed myself badly as I am trying to install a shelf which is 1550mm long. Judging by your reply, it looks like that may be too long for most sliders. I will look at alternatives.

Thank you.

[EricL]

Hello @georgebriansky 

My apologies for using the wrong term, I should have said pull out shelf or keyboard shelf. Generally speaking, the rule still applies to your project. One way to install a wide keyboard shelf is to use a 600mm drawer slide (Goliath 600mm Heavy Duty Lockable Drawer Slide). This is on the condition that your table is able to accommodate the length of the slide. This will allow you to install a 900mm shelf which should be able to accommodate a keyboard and mouse.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[georgebriansky]

Thank you for the advice. I might approach it another way, such as using guides instead of slides.