How to Install Drawer Slides in Your Ram ProMaster Van Build: Lessons Learned
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Building out a van can be a rewarding yet challenging process, especially when it comes to getting the details just right. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through our experience installing drawer slides in the kitchen area of our Ram ProMaster van conversion—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. By the end, you’ll know what to avoid and how to make your installation process a success.
Choosing the Right Drawer Slides
We opted for Lontan push-to-open, slow-close drawer slides, which are 20 inches long. These come with their own screws, but because we used half-inch birch plywood for our cabinetry, the included screws were too long. Instead, we used half-inch screws to avoid protruding through the wood. The drawer slides come apart for easier installation, and the push-to-open feature is ideal for van life, keeping drawers securely closed while driving.
Tools and Materials Needed
Level or makeshift spacer (we used a 2x4 for leveling)
Thin wood shims or even cardboard for adjustments (these were needed for us but not necessarily for everyone)
Step-by-Step Installation Process
1. Preparation and Planning
To begin, we measured and marked the placement for the drawer slides on both the drawers and the cabinet frames. Using a 2x4 as a spacer, we ensured consistent height and alignment. However, as we learned the hard way, double-checking your level is crucial.
2. Attaching the Slides to the Drawers
The drawer slides come apart into two pieces: one that attaches to the drawer and one that attaches to the cabinet. We attached the slide’s drawer-facing side first, ensuring the alignment was flush with the bottom edge of the drawer.
3. Installing the Cabinet Slides
The cabinet-facing slide was installed next, using the 2x4 spacer to align the slides. After securing the slides, we attempted to insert the drawers—only to find out that our level wasn’t actually level. This meant removing the slides and reinstalling them, which added time and frustration.
Troubleshooting and Challenges
Common Issues We Encountered:
Uneven Installation: Our initial alignment was slightly off due to relying on a faulty level. As a result, the drawers didn’t glide smoothly. We corrected this by rechecking all measurements and using shims to make micro-adjustments.
Drawer Width Discrepancies: We discovered that some drawers were slightly too narrow for the slides. Adding thin wood shims resolved this issue. For one particularly tricky drawer, a piece of cardboard from a notepad worked wonders as a temporary spacer.
Damaged Slides: One of the slides was faulty, with a bent mechanism that prevented smooth operation. Replacing the damaged slide fixed the problem.
Lessons Learned
Precision Is Key: Even small measurement errors can create significant challenges. Double-check all dimensions before drilling.
Test Fits Frequently: Insert the drawers after attaching each slide to ensure proper alignment before moving on to the next step.
Be Prepared for Setbacks: Some problems, like defective parts, are beyond your control. Keep extra materials on hand to make adjustments as needed.
Final Thoughts
Installing drawer slides in a van build is a test of patience and precision. While this project was more challenging than expected, the satisfaction of seeing the finished drawers in place made it all worthwhile. Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes; they’re opportunities to learn and improve.
If you’re tackling a similar project, don’t get discouraged. With careful planning, a bit of trial and error, and the right mindset, you’ll have functional and stylish drawers in no time.
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