Casters, Cabinet Hardware and Small Fittings

Casters, pulls and hinges: the measurements that matter

Casters are sized by wheel diameter, load per caster and stem type. A threaded or grip-ring stem needs a matching socket, a plate caster bolts on, and a hooded dual-wheel caster shields the wheels. Divide the load by the number of casters, then leave margin because one wheel often carries more than its share. Hard wheels roll easily on smooth floors; soft wheels protect floors and run quieter.

Cabinet and drawer hardware is specified by center-to-center spacing, the distance between the two screw holes of a pull, not by its overall length. Hinges vary by overlay (how far the door covers the frame), and finishes such as satin nickel, white or almond should be matched across a room. Drawer slides are chosen by length and load rating.

Small parts that must match the original exactly

A lot of this category is replacement parts, and a near match fails. Key blanks are made for a specific keyway, such as the one on a particular lockset, and need cutting to your key. Flush clips, mounting screws and wicks are sized by width, thread or length, so measure the old part rather than guessing. Reading the compatibility line in the title is more reliable than comparing photos.

Industrial control parts turn up here as well. Sizes such as 22 mm and 30 mm usually refer to the panel cut-out, so a part for one will not fit the other. Where a listing names a model, voltage or thread, treat it as a requirement; where it says universal, check the size anyway.

Questions about Casters, Cabinet Hardware and Small Fittings

How do I measure for new cabinet pulls?

Measure center-to-center, from the middle of one mounting screw hole to the middle of the other. Common spacings are 3 inches (76 mm), 3-3/4 inches (96 mm) and 5-1/16 inches (128 mm). Matching the spacing lets the new pull use the existing holes with no drilling.

Which caster stem do I need?

Check how the old caster attaches. Threaded stems screw into a threaded insert, grip-ring stems press into a socket, and plate casters bolt to a flat surface. Match the stem diameter or bolt pattern, then choose wheel size and load rating for the equipment's weight.

Can a key blank be used straight from the pack?

No. A blank is an uncut key. It must match the lock's keyway and brand series, and then be cut to your key's pattern at a locksmith or key machine. Compare the keyway code stamped on your original key with the code on the blank.