Expert: Kirk Ryan - 4/12/2009

Question
Hello..
How are you?
I have a round pedestal base table. It has two leafs.
One of the leafs will not close tight. My girl friend said she had this problem and just sanded around the pins that fit in the holes. I cannot do this as my pins (or what ever the correct name is) are hard plastic. Any idea how to fix this. Doesn't look very nice with the gap in the table.

Answer
Well I would try adjusting the slide mechanisms that bring the table together with the leafs. You may have wooden or metal slides.

If they are wooden, you can check to make sure they are functioning properly. It is common for the wood to expand naturally and start rubbing more than before. You can also try using "butchers wax" on the slides to help them function better.

If you have metal runners or slides, you may have to replace them. Sometimes they wear out over time or ball bearings may be missing. If the metal slides seem to be good, try to see if you can adjust them or give them some oil to function better.

Not sure if your table has locks under it, but some tables have locks that will also help to pull the leafs into place and hold them better.