How to Build a Stereo Cabinet With Threaded Rods

Align the wood shelves, one on top of the other. The shelves must be the same size.

Clamp the shelves by using two C-clamps, one on either end. Tighten the clamps firmly to prevent the shelves from becoming misaligned. Place a cloth between the clamp jaw and the wood surface.

Measure 1 1/2 inches in from each side of the upper shelf corners, using a measuring tape. Mark a reference point with a pencil. Also, mark a line on the side of each shelf on one end only. This reference ensures that the shelves will be installed in the same position that they are drilled.

Drill holes at each corner reference point by using a drill fitted with a 1/2-inch brad point wood boring bit. Center the point of the bit on the reference mark.

Remove the clamps from the shelves.

Install a 3/8-inch steel nut onto a threaded rod. Turn it clockwise by hand until it is a few inches from the end. Place a 3/8-inch steel washer onto the rod, followed by a 3/8-inch rubber washer.

Insert the threaded rod through one of the holes. Place a rubber washer, a steel washer and a nut onto the protruding end of the threaded rod. Tighten the nut by hand. Adjust the lower nut down if more rod length is needed to fasten the top nut and washers.

Install the remaining rods into the top shelf by using the method outlined in Step 6.

Measure the distance from the bottom of the top shelf to the point you want to install the second shelf. Mark the point with a marker on each of the other rods.

Install a nut, steel washer and rubber washer on each of the four threaded rods. Turn the nuts up to the reference mark from the top shelf.

Insert the rods into the holes of the second shelf. Move the shelf up to the four sets of nuts and washers. Follow this action with a rubber washer, steel washer and nut on each rod.

Adjust the height of each shelf by turning the nuts up or down accordingly. Place a level on each shelf as you adjust them.

Tighten all the nuts clockwise, using two adjustable wrenches. One wrench will hold either the upper or lower nut. The other will turn the remaining nut.