How to Make an Automatic Shutting Gate

Install Latch

• 1

  Remove the existing latch, if desired, using a screwdriver, drill and driving bit or socket wrench, as appropriate for the job. You can also leave the existing latch in place for increased security.

• 2

  Close the gate and draw a horizontal line across the opening-edge of the gate and gate post, using a pencil and a ruler, where you plan to install the gravity latch. This reference line helps to align the two parts of the gravity latch. Test fit the latch and catch on the gate and gatepost, respectively. The center of the striker bar must be aligned to the pivoting arm in the catch. Once properly aligned, mark the positions of the screw holes in the baseplates onto the gate and gate post.

• 3

  Drill pilot holes through the screw-hole marks into the gate post. Position the catch on the gatepost, aligning the screw holes in the baseplate to the pilot holes. Using screws provided in the latch kit, screw the catch to the gate post with a drill and driving bit.

• 4

  Reposition the striker-bar portion of the latch on the gate so the center of the striker bar is horizontal and fits into the center of the pivoting arm of the catch. Mark the positions of the holes in the baseplate onto the gate. Remove the striker bar, and then drill a pilot hole into the gate at each screw-hole mark. Screw the striker bar to the gate.

Install Gate Spring

• 5

  Go to the side of the fence on the non-opening side of the gate. You need to install the gate spring on this side for it to function properly. Close the gate and locate the adjusting nut on one end of the gate spring.

• 6

  Position the gate spring so it crosses the space between the gatepost and the hinged side of the gate, near the center of the gate. Angle the spring to cross the space diagonally with the nut end of the spring facing upward. One end bracket is screwed to the lateral or transverse center of the gatepost. The bracket on the other end of the spring is screwed to the gate frame. Mark the screw hole positions in the brackets onto the gatepost and gate. Remove the spring.

• 7

  Drill pilot holes through each mark into the gate frame and gatepost. Reposition the spring. Align the screw holes in one bracket to its corresponding pilot holes. Using screws provided in the kit, attach the bracket to the gate or gate post with a drill and driving bit. Repeat to affix the other end of the spring to the gate or gatepost.

• 8

  Open the gate and allow it to close automatically. If needed, use an adjustable wrench to tighten or loosen the tensioning nut.