Remove Old Filing Cabinet Drawers

Hi, despite Googling the topic, I can't quite work out how to remove the drawers of an old Elite Built 3-drawer metal filing cabinet. It doesn't appear to have any levers or lock retainers. Would appreciate help if anyone knows the brand. Many thanks in advance.
https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/119013/81836/img_3417.…
https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/119013/81835/img_3418.…
https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/119013/81834/img_3419.…

Comments

  • +4

    maybe try… when the drawer is pulled fully out, gently raise the front edge of the drawer up to a 30 degree angle or so and see if it clears those retaining 'pegs'?
    i reckon it should just slide out….our fridge uses a similar method for the lower fruit & vegetable drawer

  • +1

    I seem to recall you need to do it from top drawer to bottom drawer

  • +1

    Normal way I’ve used, but probably a different brand, is to open the drawer without pulling the extension runner out and lift the front of the drawer. Alternatively as you lift the draw up push the extension runner back in. Then pull the drawer out and lift again as the back end catches.

    Having said that, the photos look different to what I recall.

    Another alternative is a bigger hammer or a grinder depending on the level of destruction you are after.

  • +1

    try using a screw driver and pushing some.of the holes in (on the bar that slides the draws)
    could be like a button that lets the draw out

  • Thanks, everyone, really appreciate your input. Will try all today. :)

    • Hi aretsa9, just wondering how you got on removing the drawers?
      I have the exact same Elite Built filing cabinet with those runners in your picture. I've tried numerous methods, including those above but with no luck.
      As you said there are no tabs or levers to manipulate and pulling up on the open drawer forcefully has no impact.
      Be grateful for any ideas.

  • Always check the bottom of the cabinet, under and behind the bottom drawer. It's amazing the things that can be found there, similar with chests of drawers, bottom of lift wells, etc.

  • Hi aretsa9, just wondering how you got on removing the drawers?
    I have the exact same Elite Built filing cabinet with those runners in your picture. I've tried numerous methods, including those above but with no luck.
    As you said there are no tabs or levers to manipulate and pulling up on the open drawer forcefully has no impact.
    Be grateful for any ideas.

  • +1

    Hi, despite all efforts I was unable to remove the drawers. I called the manufacturer and they confirmed to me that the drawers of that model are fixed. I think that's strange but got no further.

    • Hi, thanks for your reply. Such a shame they can’t be removed. I’m repainting and makes it much more difficult. Cheers

      • Can you drill out the pop rivet in the drawer to get it out?

        • That's looks to be the only option to remove the drawer from the runner, thanks. Not sure I'll go that far though.

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