IKEA Alex drawer full extension upgrade

PLEASE READ INSTRUCTIONS AND VIEW IMAGES BEFORE PRINTING AND CUTTING

This is an IKEA ALEX drawer extension that allows you to use the full depth of the drawer efficiently (for example for Gridfinity systems).

The upgrade lets the drawer extend 17 cm (≈ 6.7 in) further than stock.
Per drawer, only two small 3D-printed parts and one printed measuring template are required.

Installation Instructions (from image 5 onward)

If anything is unclear or if you have further questions, feel free to ask in the comments.

1. Remove the two screws that attach the metal rail to the wooden drawer.
2. Pull the drawer out and remove it completely.
3. Place the printed template:
   • The protruding pin must sit in the existing hole.
   • The template must point toward the rear of the drawer.
4. Mark the center point.
5. Drill a 12 mm elongated slot:
   • Possible methods:
     • Drill holes at both ends and connect them using a jigsaw.
     • Use a slot cutter / elongated hole drill bit.
   • Important: To prevent tear-out, apply strong masking tape to the inside of the drawer before drilling.
6. Insert the 3D-printed part from the outside.
   • The part is intentionally flexible and must be slightly bent to fit.
   • No glue is required: the part is automatically aligned and held in place by the tension between the metal rail and the drawer.
7. Wax (or lightly grease) both the drawer slots and the metal rail.
8. Reinstall the drawer and tighten the screws loosely.
   • Important: Overtightening will cause the drawer to move very stiffly.