The Kesseböhmer LeMans II is an articulated blind corner storage mechanism featuring kidney-shaped non-slip trays that swing 100% out of the cabinet on synchronized 4-point pivot arms. Each tray holds 55 lbs, moves independently, and features integrated soft-close damping.
At a Glance: Key Takeaways
- 100% External Extension: Both trays swing entirely outside the cabinet for effortless standing reach.
- 85° Door Opening Clearance: Requires the cabinet door to open to at least 85 degrees to clear the tray swing.
- 55 lbs per Shelf: Heavy-gauge steel arms support 110 lbs of combined cookware with zero sagging.
- Arena Plus Anti-Slip: Proprietary textured composite base prevents pots from sliding during movement.
1. The Physics of 4-Point Kinematic Arm Trajectories
Named after the famous French racetrack with sweeping curves (Circuit de la Sarthe in Le Mans), the Kesseböhmer LeMans II system is an engineering marvel. In a standard blind corner cabinet, the opening is restricted to a narrow 15 to 21-inch door, while the storage cavity extends 48 inches sideways.
The LeMans uses a synchronized 4-point kinematic linkage. As you pull the handle, the tray glides forward 6 inches, pivots 45 degrees to clear the face frame, and then extends fully outward into the kitchen aisle.
LeMans II Model Sizing & Cabinet Requirements
Use this reference table to calculate exact physical dimensions, ratios, and specifications before purchasing:
| LeMans Model Size | Min Door Opening Width | Min Interior Cabinet Depth | Tray Surface Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| LeMans II - 40 | 14.25" (362mm) Clear opening | 19.7" (500mm) Deep | 450 sq inches per tray |
| LeMans II - 45 (Most Popular) | 16.12" (410mm) Clear opening | 19.7" (500mm) Deep | 530 sq inches per tray |
| LeMans II - 50 | 18.12" (460mm) Clear opening | 19.7" (500mm) Deep | 620 sq inches per tray |
| LeMans II - 60 (Large) | 22.0" (560mm) Clear opening | 19.7" (500mm) Deep | 780 sq inches per tray |
Door Hinge Obstruction Collision Constraints
Every successful decoration project must account for physical and environmental constraints:
LeMans Tray Catching on Cabinet Door Hinges During Swing
Standard 110-degree hinges stick out into the door opening by 1 inch, catching the LeMans tray; strictly install 'Zero-Protrusion 155-Degree Wide-Angle Hinges' (like Blum Clip Top 155°) so the door swings completely out of the opening.
How to Install a LeMans II Blind Corner Unit
Execute this professional sequence to achieve flawless results without backtracking:
Verify Left or Right Blind
Confirm unit matches blind side (Left-handed unit for blind on left, door on right).
Mount Vertical Steel Post
Fasten vertical axle post to cabinet base and upper stretcher using manufacturer template.
Attach Pivot Arms
Snap lower and upper articulated pivot arms onto the axle at desired height intervals.
Mount Arena Plus Trays
Slide kidney trays onto support arms until locking tabs click securely.
Install Soft-Close Dampers
Clip SoftStopp hydraulic damping pistons onto the guide track.
Common Mistakes & Countermeasures
Avoid these costly errors that compromise aesthetics, ergonomics, and budget:
Ordering a Right-Handed LeMans for a Left-Blind Cabinet
Project Execution Checklist
Track your physical progress. Checkboxes persist automatically on this device:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you adjust the height of the individual LeMans trays?
Yes! Both the top and bottom trays can be adjusted vertically in 2-inch increments along the central steel post without any tools, allowing you to fit tall stockpots on the bottom shelf.
