How to Install a Positive Self-Closing Hinge for a Gate
With closer devices for wooden gates, the terms "positive" and "negative" refer to the action of a return spring. When a gate is opened and released, a positive device pushes the outer face of the gate to the closed position. A negative device pulls the gate closed. Self-closing hinges have an internal coil spring that acts upon the hinge pin. The spring tightens in a clockwise direction and loosens counterclockwise. The hinges are either positive or negative, depending on which end of the pin faces up. Self-closing hinges work more efficiently when installed as positive-action hinges.
Inspect the ends of a hinge-pin barrel, or tube, on a self-closing hinge. Typically, a circular cap with a screw denotes the top of the hinge. This end is installed facing up, or toward the top edge of the gate.
Loosen and remove the retainer screw and cap with a screwdriver. Save the cap and screw. Turn the slotted adjuster inside counterclockwise with the screwdriver until the hinge butts close face to face easily by hand.
Set up a power or cordless drill with a screw-tip attachment. Position the gate on edge with the edge where the hinges install facing up.
Open a hinge so the butts are parallel instead of at an angle to each other. Position the hinge at the end of the wooden rail that attaches across the back of the gate, with the top of the barrel facing the top of the gate. Position the innermost butt at the end of the wooden rail. Attach the butt to the end of the rail with the provided wood screws at each of the machined holes.
Repeat Steps 2 through 4 and attach the remaining hinge at the end of the opposite rail, with the top of the barrel facing the top of the gate.
Stand the gate in the open position with the hinges facing the appropriate gate post. Place two two-by-fours flat on the ground under the bottom of the gate as temporary supports while you attach the hinges to the gate post. Space the blocks 24 inches apart.
Align the sides of the hinge barrels against the outer edge of the gate post. Attach the opposite butts on each hinge to the post with the provided screws at each of the machined holes in the butts.
Turn the slotted adjusters in each hinge barrel clockwise in equal increments with a screwdriver. Continue to turn the adjusters until the gate swings to the closed position.
Attach a gate latch to the gate with the provided screws. Close the gate and mark the corresponding gate post at the height of the latch. Attach the catch to the gate post with the provided screws. Adjust the hinges, as necessary, so the gate closes and latches without assistance. Reattach the caps to the top of each barrel with the screwdriver.
- Install three hinges, equally spaced on heavier or taller gates. Adjust each in equal increments for the most efficient closing action.
- Hinges and adjustment procedures vary. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions regarding installation and adjustment of self-closing hinges beforehand.
William Machin began work in construction at the age of 15, while still in high school. In 35 years, he's gained expertise in all phases of residential construction, retrofit and remodeling. His hobbies include horses, motorcycles, road racing and sport fishing. He studied architecture at Taft Junior College.