Sliding Step Stool Help

[Slim]

I need a little help with the sliding mechanism for this step stool.

I was thinking of making runners out of this. It would be set into the inside of the step and the next step would glide on it. However, I'm not sure how I would stop the steps sliding all the way off. Maybe use ball catches or similar?

Otherwise, can anyone suggest any consealed hardware that would do the job?

 

[wizer]

Stopped sliding dovetails?

 

[maltrout512]

Not as complicated, a dowel running in a grove on each side of your steps...

 

[Mr Ed]

Not as complicated, a dowel running in a grove on each side of your steps...

Was just about to type that when I read the last post. Pegs running in slots would be nice and simple. Sliding dovetails would be a moisture content dependant nightmare I would think.

Ed

 

[wizer]

I think the main issue is how to stop them tho.

 

[NeilO]

How about leaving the last "finger" oversize, each side and each step, and run them in stopped grooves as Tom said?

 

[Racers]

Hi,

Neat idea, but looks a little unsafe to me, very narrow footprint on each step and easy to slide back together, unless you can come up with a stout locking mechanism the whole thing will rack and twist. You have 3 U shaped pieces and that's not the strongest shape.

Pete