Blum 38N otion 105-degree Compact 3/8-inch Overlay Screw-on Soft Close Hinge Instruction Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing Blum 38N otion 105-degree Compact 3/8-inch Overlay Screw-on Soft Close Hinges. These hinges are designed to provide smooth, quiet, and reliable operation for your cabinet doors. This manual provides essential information for proper installation, operation, and maintenance to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your hinges.

Safety Information

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses, when drilling or handling tools.
• Ensure all screws are securely fastened to prevent the door from detaching.
• Keep small parts, such as screws, out of reach of children.
• Use only the recommended tools and hardware for installation.

Package Contents

Verify that all components are present before beginning installation:

• Blum 38N otion 105-degree Compact 3/8-inch Overlay Screw-on Soft Close Hinges (Quantity as purchased, typically 10 per pack)
• #6 x 5/8" Wood Screws
• #10 x 3/4" Wood Screws

Image: Blum 38N otion hinges and accompanying screws.

Setup and Installation

Tools Required:

• Pencil
• Measuring Tape or Ruler
• Drill with 35mm Forstner Bit (for hinge cup hole)
• Phillips Head Screwdriver

Pre-installation Checks:

• Bore Distance: These hinges require a 3mm bore distance, which is the measurement from the outermost edge of the cabinet door to the start of the hinge cup hole.
• Cup Depth: The hinge cup depth is 7/16" (11mm). Ensure your door material can accommodate this depth.
• Overlay: These hinges are designed for a 3/8" overlay, meaning the door will protrude 1/8" beyond the cabinet frame when closed.

Installation Steps:

1. Mark Hinge Locations: On the inside of your cabinet door, mark the positions for the hinge cups. Typically, hinges are placed 2-3 inches from the top and bottom edges of the door. Ensure the 3mm bore distance is maintained from the door edge to the start of the 35mm hole.
2. Drill Hinge Cup Holes: Using a drill with a 35mm Forstner bit, carefully drill the hinge cup holes to a depth of 7/16" (11mm) at the marked locations. Ensure the holes are clean and free of debris.


Image: Hinge cup installed in a cabinet door.

3. Attach Hinges to Door: Insert the hinge cup into the drilled hole. Secure the hinge to the door using the provided #6 x 5/8" wood screws in the pre-drilled holes on the hinge arm.
4. Attach Door to Cabinet: Position the cabinet door onto the cabinet frame, aligning the hinge mounting plates with the desired location. Secure the hinge mounting plates to the cabinet frame using the provided #10 x 3/4" wood screws.
5. Adjust Door Alignment: These hinges offer adjustment screws for fine-tuning door alignment. Adjust as necessary to achieve proper door closure and spacing.

Operating Instructions

Soft-Close Function (BLUMOTION):

The integrated BLUMOTION mechanism ensures that your cabinet doors close softly and silently. Simply push the door gently, and the hinge will engage the soft-close feature, preventing slamming.

Deactivation Switch:

For smaller or lighter cabinet doors, the soft-close action might be too strong. These hinges include a deactivation switch located on the hinge cup. To deactivate the soft-close function, slide the switch to the 'off' position. This can be useful for doors that are very light and might not close fully with the soft-close engaged, or if you prefer a traditional closing action.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Clean the hinges with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the finish.
• Periodic Checks: Periodically check all mounting screws for tightness. Loose screws can affect hinge performance and door alignment.
• Lubrication: The BLUMOTION mechanism is maintenance-free and does not require lubrication.

Troubleshooting

• Door Not Closing Softly:
  • Check if the deactivation switch is in the 'on' position.
  • Ensure the door is not too heavy for the number of hinges used.
• Door Not Closing Completely:
  • Check for obstructions within the cabinet opening.
  • Verify that the hinges are properly aligned and adjusted.
  • If the door is very light, try deactivating the soft-close mechanism.
• Door Misalignment:
  • Use the adjustment screws on the hinge to fine-tune the door's position horizontally, vertically, and for depth.
  • Ensure all mounting screws are tight.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Blum products are manufactured to high-quality standards and are typically backed by a manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, claims, or technical support, please refer to the official Blum website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

For further assistance, please visit the official Blum website or contact their customer support.