How to Repair a Filing Cabinet

Repairing your file cabinet is cheaper than purchasing a new one.

File cabinets work great for organizing papers, but over time they need to be repaired. There are three common problems that are easy to fix to get your file cabinet working and looking how it is supposed to. The file cabinet repair process for all three of these issues — a wobbly cabinet, a bent track or a dent — uses common household tools and does not take long to complete.

1. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the screws located in the center of the file cabinet's feet. Remove all the broken feet and replace with new ones. Insert the center screw through the new feet and tighten with a Phillips screwdriver. Replacing the broken feet creates an even base for the file cabinet to stand without wobbling.

2. Open the drawer of the file cabinet with the bent track. Remove the drawer so you can locate the rail. Use a Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the screws holding the track in place. Remove the track and replace with a new one. Insert the screws through the track and use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten the screws into the file cabinet.

3. Open the drawer of the file cabinet where the dent is located. Remove the drawer so you can reach the dent. Pound out the dent using a rubber mallet. Put the drawer back in place.