How to Replace the Metal Ends in a Wooden Headboard

Metal bed rails that pair with a wooden headboard have hooks on the ends that fit into each leg. These metal ends fit inside the headboard and hold the bed rails tight against the headboard, creating a sturdy bed frame that supports the box springs and mattress. Sometimes these metal ends bend or break, or they no longer fit well, requiring you to replace them. The metal hook plate on the ends of the rails are bolted on and can be removed with the right tools, then replaced with new, sturdier metal ends.

Bed hook adapter kit
Wrench

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the mattress and the box spring, exposing the bed rails and the headboard. Step into the center of the bed frame for the best access to the metal ends.
- 2
  Lift up one side of the bed rails near the headboard. The metal hooks should slide up into the slot in the headboard's leg. Pull the metal end and the headboard apart. Repeat on the other side. The metal rails should now be separated from the wooden headboard.
- 3
  Unscrew the nut from the bolt holding the metal bed hook adapter bracket. Remove the bolt and take the metal end off the bed rail. Repeat on the other metal end.
- 4
  Align the replacement metal bed hook adapter bracket with the bolt holes in the bed rail. Insert the bolt and tighten the nut with your fingers first, then a wrench. Put the second hook adapter bracket on the metal end of the bed rail on the other side.
- 5
  Align the metal hooks with the slot in the headboard leg. Insert the hooks, then press firmly down until the hooks are secure against the headboard leg. Repeat on the other side.
- 6
  Set the box spring and mattress back onto the bed rail.

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