Table slides

[Bevans]

Hi Everyone,

I recently made a dining table and installed slides for an extension leaf. One side is real tight opening and closing just as it comes together while the other side slides very easy. I know they develop a camber but this is just a little too tight with the table top. The slides appear to be parallel according to my measurements. Before I do something to the slide with the problem I thought I would seek some advice. I am considering backing out the screws a little, applying some soap/wax to the slide and if nothing else works sanding the slide a little. Anyone have experience with this topic or have other ideas?

Thanks in advance.

[Tpt life]

Wax often works wonders. Check your RH level because if it is low but can get high, the slides can swell with the moisture and you will want to do a touch of correction before wax.

[CessnaPilotBarry]

Make sure to use paste wax, not paraffin (canning wax) if it's wood on wood.

 

I've "heard" that using paraffin, because the paraffin stick for plane soles may have been closer to the woodworker than the can of paste wax, can wooden slides to stick.   Again, so I hear... 

[Bevans]

Thanksfor the replies and advice. I applied some paste wax and it does seem to help the sliding some. I cannot,however, get the two table halves to come tightly together. Still seems to be about a 1/16 inch gap on the stubborn side. I really don't want to dismantle the slides but may be my only choice if reducing the RH does not help matters. I will post again in a few days to let you know.