table issue

[marcros]

I have made a dining table, approx 6' x 3'. There is a full width drawer each end. The mortices were nice and tight but I suspect that the cross rails have too small a cross section because it is raking quite badly. These go below the drawer and so are only about 2 x 1 (the 1" is the height, making it worse). The top is finished but not fitted, This cross rail at each end is the only thing at the moment connecting the 2 long sides of the table to make the frame.

I suspect that I should have made letterbox type drawer openings, but the drawers are made and finished. in fact, it is otherwise all done bar drawer pulls and top fitting. The legs are not moving on the floor, and the joint itself doesnt appear to be moving, however it must be. Left to right is a large haunched and drawbored mortice and tenon, so no racking in that direction.

Does anybody have any suggestions as to fixes?There is the possibility of putting a central (or 2 just off centre) cross rails in as deep as the aprons, but clamping a baton across hasnt make much difference that I can see. i know that the top may firm it up a bit but that has to be free to expand and contract.

 

[Chrispy]

Are you saying that there is nothing between the draw and the underside of the top which needs to move because it is solid wood?
If so whats to stop the top sagging in to the draw and causing it to bind?
I think you may have to remake the draw.

 

[marcros]

that is pretty much the case. I may be able to put a piece in behind where the drawer front finishes to- doubling as a stop effectively. It would mean modifying the drawer sides and back, but could probably do it on the bandsaw.

As for sagging, the breadboard end shouldnt bind on the front and there is a slight gap between the actual top on the sides and back. through the way that it has worked out, rather than design.

would beefing up the centre with rails do anything to help the ends? These could be approx 18" from each end. One drawer is a bit shorter front to back than the other- prob nearer 14"