11/16/21

Installation and Adjustment Guide: 6-Way Cabinet Hinges

Pre-Installation Preparation

Required Tools

  • Cordless drill with Phillips head bit

  • Phillips head screwdriver

  • Pencil and measuring tape

  • Cabinet hardware jig (recommended)

  • Level

  • Pilot hole drill bit (typically 2mm)

  • Wood clamps (optional)

  • Cabinet door supports (recommended)

Planning Considerations

  • Standard mounting requires 2-4 hinges per door depending on size and weight

  • General rule: Doors under 40" need 2 hinges, 40-60" need 3 hinges, over 60" need 4 hinges

  • Allow minimum 1/8" gap between doors and 1/16" gap around frame

  • Consider overlay requirements before drilling

Installation Process

Step 1: Marking and Preparation

  1. Measure and mark hinge locations on cabinet frame

    • Top hinge: 4-6 inches from top

    • Bottom hinge: 4-6 inches from bottom

    • Additional hinges: Evenly spaced between

  2. Use hardware jig to mark screw holes

  3. Pre-drill pilot holes in marked locations

  4. Test fit hinges before final mounting

Step 2: Mounting Process

  1. Mount hinge plates to cabinet frame

    • Ensure proper orientation

    • Use all provided screws

    • Keep screws snug but not overtight

  2. Attach hinge arms to door

    • Use hardware jig for consistency

    • Pre-drill to prevent splitting

  3. Connect door to mounted plates

    • Listen for click indicating proper connection

    • Test movement before adjustment

Adjustment Techniques

Height Adjustment (Up/Down)

  • Purpose: Aligns door vertically with adjacent doors

  • Location: Usually top screw on mounting plate

  • Process:

    1. Loosen height adjustment screw

    2. Slide door up or down as needed

    3. Tighten screw to lock position

    4. Check alignment with level

Side Adjustment (Left/Right)

  • Purpose: Centers door in opening and sets gap spacing

  • Location: Front or side screw on hinge arm

  • Process:

    1. Locate side adjustment screw

    2. Turn clockwise to move door right

    3. Turn counterclockwise to move left

    4. Adjust all hinges equally

Depth Adjustment (Forward/Back)

  • Purpose: Sets door flush with cabinet face

  • Location: Rear screw on hinge arm

  • Process:

    1. Identify depth adjustment screw

    2. Turn to move door in or out

    3. Check door sits flush with frame

    4. Ensure consistent depth across all hinges

Fine-Tuning Tips

Sequence for Perfect Alignment

  1. Start with height adjustment

    • Get vertical alignment correct first

    • Use level to ensure perfect horizontal alignment

  2. Move to side adjustment

    • Set equal gaps between doors

    • Check reveal around entire door

  3. Finish with depth adjustment

    • Ensure consistent depth across door

    • Check for proper closing

Common Issues and Solutions

  1. Door Not Closing Properly

    • Check for cabinet frame square

    • Verify proper depth adjustment

    • Ensure hinges are fully seated

  2. Uneven Gaps

    • Adjust side movement on all hinges

    • Check for consistent hinge placement

    • Verify cabinet frame is square

  3. Door Sagging

    • Tighten all mounting screws

    • Check for proper number of hinges

    • Verify hinges are rated for door weight

Maintenance Best Practices

Regular Maintenance Schedule

  • Monthly: Check and tighten all screws

  • Quarterly: Clean and lubricate moving parts

  • Annually: Complete alignment check

  • As needed: Adjust for settling or heavy use

Preventive Care

  1. Avoid over-tightening screws

  2. Use appropriate lubricant on moving parts

  3. Clean spills and debris promptly

  4. Address issues immediately to prevent wear

Long-Term Care

  • Keep adjustment tools accessible

  • Document initial settings

  • Mark optimal positions after adjustment

  • Keep spare hardware for future needs

Safety Notes

  • Support doors during adjustment

  • Work with assistant on large doors

  • Use appropriate safety equipment

  • Follow manufacturer guidelines

  • Keep detailed records of adjustments

(Disclaimer: We do not sell hinges unless you have previously purchased the cabinets from us and need a replacement.)