How to Add a Lock to a Bush Northfield File Cabinet

Close the drawer and, from the side of the cabinet, figure out where you want the lock to go. Many people place it approximately 3 inches from the front and about 3 inches from the top of the cabinet. Check this area to ensure there are no rails or other cabinet hardware to get in the way of the lock installation.

Remove the drawer from the cabinet. Drill a small pilot hole through the side of the cabinet where you will install the lock.

Drill a hole in the side of the cabinet the diameter of the plunger lock, using the pilot hole as the guide.

From the inside of the cabinet, push the main body of the plunger lock out so that the key-operated portion of the lock is on the outside.

Screw the plunger lock mechanism to the inside of the cabinet after making sure that the screws are not long enough to punch through the side of the cabinet to the outside. If the screws that come with the lock set appear too long then replace them with shorter screws.

Place a dab of paint on the plunger and use the key to withdraw the plunger into the lock.

Replace the cabinet. With it closed, push the plunger lock as if you were locking the cabinet. Open the lock with the key and open the door. There should be a paint mark on the side of the drawer directly where the plunger will reach it.

Drill a hole in the drawer side the diameter of the plunger cap and centered on the paint mark. Rub the exterior of the plunger cap with epoxy glue and insert it into the hole from the outside of the drawer so that the opening is facing outwards.

Close the drawer and test the lock by pushing it in. The plunger should enter the cap and prevent the drawer from opening. Unlock the plunger and withdraw it from the cap. The drawer should now open freely.