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We have a kitchen table with extra leafs but we cannot pull the table apart easily. Would anyone know what we can use to make the table slide apart easier??

Hi snap,

If the mechanism for the table is wood, pull the table open and coat each wooden surface which sides to together with wax. This can be done by rubbing a wax candle or such over the surfaces which side together when you open and close the table. you may also use a bar of hand soap and do the same thing. Once the surfaces have been rubbed with either try sliding the table in and out so this coating makes connect. It should move more freely. When rubbing with wax or hand soap really coat the rails well. Once done coating, open and close the table several and this will help transfer some of the material to areas of the rails that were hidden so they slide more easily.

If the mechanism is metal, often times this style mechanism also has wooden rails which slide together so doing as suggested above by rubbing those wooden surfaces which slide against one another with wax or hand soap will also make the table easier to operate without needing to grease the gears. After doing this open and close the table several times so the all parts of the rails are coated with the wax or soap to make it easier to operate. If you find it still stiff then grease the gears as outlined below. You may lubricate the metal gears that work in the geared tracks by applying a small amount of grease to each gear shaft. Use white grease or lithium grease but a small amount. You may find this is easier by removing the screw which hold each in place and apply the grease around its shaft and reattach it being sure to seat the screw securely so as to not interfere with the table top and aligning each gear with the track mechanism. If the track is metal neither needs to be greased just the gears so each turns freely. They may also be too tight but do be careful with loosening them as they may interfere with the top and over time may loosen up if too loose.

Others may have additional suggestions.

Good Luck!

This message has been edited. Last edited by: Simply Me,

Also, check to make sure the slides are free from dried spills, like milk, juice, etc. Once you get the table spread, thoroughly clean the rails with mild soap and water, rinse and dry.