Drawers Suitable for Mepla Kitchens

A compatible drawer system for existing kitchen cabinets is based on standardised grid dimensions such as System 32 and requires precise specifications for nominal length, installation width, and load capacity.

# Spare parts and drawers suitable for Mepla kitchens

Mepla fittings were a firm standard in industrial kitchen manufacturing for many years. Because original parts are often no longer produced today, joiners and installers face the challenge of finding technically compatible replacement fittings during repairs or modernisations. Directly replacing the runners or complete drawer boxes is straightforward if the physical parameters of the cabinet carcass are observed precisely.

What to Look Out for Regarding Compatibility: Dimensions and Hole Pattern

To choose a drawer or runner suitable for a Mepla kitchen, the geometry of the carcass is decisive. Most kitchen cabinets are based on System 32. This standardised grid dimension specifies a hole spacing of exactly 32 mm vertically. The distance from the front cabinet edge to the centre of the first drilled hole is typically 37 mm.

The following dimensions must be determined in millimetres before undertaking a replacement:

• Nominal length (NL): The depth of the drawer runner, typically in the range of 250 mm - 550 mm.
• Internal carcass width (LW): The inside dimension of the cabinet from side panel to side panel.
• Installation width: The lateral space between the drawer side and the internal cabinet wall (for many telescopic runners, exactly 12.5 mm to 13 mm per side).

Suitable Drawer Runners as Replacements

If the old wooden or metal drawer box is structurally still intact, replacing the runners alone is sufficient in most cases. A fundamental distinction is made here between a full extension (the drawer can be pulled out 100%) and a single extension (extension travel is approximately 75%).

For a technical upgrade during replacement, using modern drawer runners with soft-close is recommended. This soft-close mechanism dampens the momentum of the drawer over the final centimetres and pulls it smoothly and silently into the cabinet.

If heavy pots, stacks of plates, or provisions are to be stored, a standard runner is often not enough. Here, heavy-duty drawer runners are required, designed for a dynamic load capacity of 30 kg, 45 kg, or more. Those who also require maximum access to the rearmost section of the drawer should consistently opt for full-extension drawer runners. Alternatively, various other drawer runners are available that can serve as compatible replacements for outdated roller runners.

Retrofitting Complete Drawer Systems

If the old Mepla drawer is warped, damaged, or heavily soiled, switching to complete drawer systems is the most efficient solution. These drawer side systems made of powder-coated metal come directly with matching undermount runners. The installation of the cabinet runners uses the existing hole line in the unit. The front of the old Mepla drawer can be adapted to the new metal drawer sides using appropriate front fixing brackets, provided that the hole centres on the front panel are re-measured.

Installation and Retrofitting: Replacement in the Cabinet

Replacing fittings is a purely mechanical process comparable to replacing a gear in a well-lubricated machine – the parameters and installation angles must match precisely for the system to run smoothly.

Tools Required

• Cordless screwdriver with torque control
• Pozi screwdriver bit (strictly PZ2, do not use PH2)
• Folding rule or vernier caliper
• Bradawl or centre punch

Installation Steps

1. Dismantling: Unhook the old drawer and unscrew the defective runners from the cabinet carcass.
2. Checking the hole pattern: Check the 37 mm distance to the front edge. If the dimension does not match the new runner, mark and drill anew using a 5 mm drill bit.
3. Fixing the cabinet runner: Secure the new runner into the line of holes using chipboard screws (typically Ø 3.5 mm or 4 mm, drive PZ or TX). For existing 5 mm holes, use Euro screws (Ø 6.3 mm).
4. Preparing the drawer: For undermount runners, screw the corresponding locking devices/clips to the underside of the drawer.
5. Insertion: Position the drawer horizontally onto the extended runners and push it in until the mechanism engages with an audible click.

Internal Accessories for Modernised Kitchen Drawers

Following the technical upgrade of the drawer runners, the interior of the drawer can also be brought up to modern standards. A cut-to-size non-slip drawer mat protects the wooden base against scratches and prevents pots and pans from sliding around during dynamic opening and closing. For cutlery, cooking utensils, and small items, a tailored kitchen drawer organiser provides the necessary organisation and prevents clutter inside the newly fitted drawer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Replacing Mepla Fittings

Can I replace old Mepla runners with any other runners? Yes, as long as the new runner is compatible with the internal carcass width and the nominal length. System 32 ensures that the drilling patterns of most modern fittings can be used as alternatives to Mepla. However, the lateral installation width (often 12.5 mm) must be maintained precisely.

What is the difference between soft-close and push-to-open? Soft-close is a damping system that slows the drawer down and pulls it shut gently. Push-to-open (also called tip-on) is a mechanical ejector for handleless fronts – pressing the front causes the drawer to pop open. Both mechanisms are technically opposing and are generally not combined within the same fitting.

Which screws do I need for installation in the kitchen cabinet carcass? For pre-drilled holes in the 32 mm grid line (Ø 5 mm), you require Euro screws with a diameter of 6.3 mm. If you need to drive new fixings directly into the chipboard, use countersunk chipboard screws, preferably in the dimensions 3.5 x 15 mm or 4.0 x 15 mm.