So I’m designing my first farmhouse dining table and trying to work out the best plan for the extensions. I would like to use equalizers but I’m worried that the distance between trestles will be too far for it to work out. I was thinking maybe build a platform that sits on the trestles, and then attach the equalizers to the platform. Sort of like a table sitting on top of a smaller table, if that makes sense. That way if the equalizer slides can’t fully reach each trestle to provide full support they will at least be supported by a platform that is reaching the trestles. 

 

Added bonus to this idea is that I can semi-enclose the platform around the slides to create a storage area for the leaf extensions, table runners, etc.

 

Am I on the right track? Should I ditch the equalizers and just create two slides on the ends?

How about some rough dimensions?

 

I've made a lot of farm house tables. You really need to drop a picture with some dimensions to be more clear...

Still planning so no pictures. Not totally sure about the top yet, probably somewhere in the 78" X 40" range. About 46" between two trestles. About 15" overhang on the ends. So I was thinking if I want it to extend from the middle I would need some equalizer slides that spanned the 46" gap. Just not sure if it's a practical idea or not.

Here's something-

https://www.osbornewood.com/table-slides.aspx

Thanks Lew. I saw the 50" slides from Osborne and a 52" slide too from somewhere. But with only two trestles as support, and not a center pedestal leg, is 46" too big of a span to create stability, stand up to long term use/abuse, and prevent sag?

 

I'll have an apron and bracing where I can for support, especially during the times that it's extended. Just not sure about the center of the table.

Adam, might be a good time to visit a used furniture store or Goodwill/Restore to get a first hand look at tables and see how it is done commercially.

I took a quick measurement of our dining table, 44 x 68 without leaves in, and 42" between two trestles.  Will be happy to take pics or provide info for you.  I cannot open it up during the week as I am a one man band during the week unless I ask a neighbor for a hand...

9 minutes ago, Cal said:

Adam, might be a good time to visit a used furniture store or Goodwill/Restore to get a first hand look at tables and see how it is done commercially.

I took a quick measurement of our dining table, 44 x 68 without leaves in, and 42" between two trestles.  Will be happy to take pics or provide info for you.  I cannot open it up during the week as I am a one man band during the week unless I ask a neighbor for a hand...

Cal, sounds like you have the answer! I checked some local stores already but couldn't quite find what I was after (small town problems). If you are willing to send a pic of your table you would be a life saver! I think you may have answered the question though, if you have 42" between trestles. I was thinking closer to 46" because I was worried about people being crowded by the trestles but if 42" works then that's better I'm sure. 

You have a lot of options on these tables just use the one that works best for you...9

Edited November 12, 20196 yr by BillyJack

Nice work Billy!

 

Adam, I will PM you with my contact info.

Billy, looks awesome. Thanks for your help. 

This is the bottom of our table. It has four 10" wide inserts. It's range is between about 68" to 108". It sets on 2 pedestals. 

 

Not a very good picture

 

The new thing these days is wood and black pipe. One can very  creative just wandering around at  lowes...

 

Edited November 12, 20196 yr by BillyJack

Adam,

First off welcome to The Patriot Woodworker!

Check the Antique/Resale shops in your area.

You might just find a table top on the cheap that has the slides you need.

Some of the ones like Lew pictured have gear driven slides that work from one side, or the middle.

 

10 minutes ago, Larry Buskirk said:

Some of the ones like Lew pictured have gear driven slides that work from one side, or the middle.

That's what we have!