Pool gate tension

[Sdhb]

Maybe an odd question, but I have a safety pool gate that I've noticed does not always return fully to the closed position.

Im assuming it has something to do with the spring that provides tension. It's been lubed up but dosen't seem to have helped and I can't quite figure out how to adjust it, assuming it's possible. TY!

 

[Newdude]

Can we get more shots of this from both sides ?

 

[Sdhb]

Attached, thanks. Looks as though it's very similar to this : https://www.homedepot.ca/product/pe...JFVaahp_lcJEw-frKOQaAqiwEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

I assume I could just replace it, but figured it should be adjustable. Maybe anothet question is how far open should the gate need to be to self close? For example if it opens wide enough for a person to pass through, the return tension is enough that it does close and lock. But if I were to open it and close it manually leaving it ajar about a foot, there is not enough to tension to self close. I assume that could be a safety issue and that the gate should self close in all circumstances?

 

[Newdude]

Ok. Seeing that bar as part of the actual spring makes sense now. It holds the spring from rotating. The spring has lost too much tension and it looks like there's no way to adjust it.

Hang tight for a bit and maybe somebody has a trick for it. If not, replace it.

I assume that could be a safety issue and that the gate should self close in all circumstances?

Yes. Self closing gates that open outward are code for a reason. You never know when a neighborhood toddler will escape.

 

[Newdude]

Wait !!!!

Take it all apart and try rotating the bar one full turn

Careful taking it apart, it may want to fly.

 

[Rocket J Squirrel]

I have never seen that type of gate closer before. It looks awfully complicated for such a simple task. So this is just a guess.

That bar sticking out to the right looks like a possible adjuster. Maybe if you loosen the 2 nuts holding its bracket in place, you can lower the bracket by rotating it toward you. Then you might be able to be turn the bar enough to tighten the spring; if you're lucky, it might click into a new tighter location. Then replace the metal bracket and tighten the nuts. I don't think all that grease will help one bit.

I don't think any closer would work unless the gate was opened far enough. I can certainly squeeze through mine without it fully closing and latching. So I don't do that. (But it passed inspection as is.)

 

[Sdhb]

Yes I had wondered if I could rotate the spring one more time and then reinstall, but I also worried another full rotation would add way too much tension and it would launch back like a fighter plane taking off LOL.

Hearing that yours doesn't fully close if left ajar makes me wonder if mine ever actually did, or if I'm just over thinking it now..

 

[Rocket J Squirrel]

I wasn't suggesting a full rotation. I doubt that's even possible without breaking something.

I'm suggesting maybe a 1/4 rotation. Work incrementally so nothing snaps.

 

[Newdude]

I wasn't suggesting a full rotation.

I was, because a partial rotation will somehow snag anything that goes by.

I doubt that's even possible without breaking something.

It may be too much tension, or not even possible, but I'd give it a try before replacing.

 

[Sdhb]

For some reason I can't picture how to do a 1/4 turn, because the end that inserts is in fixed position. If I turned it 1/4.. How would I then "lock" it in that position, wouldn't it want to unturn to original position? Such a hard thing to describe in words lol.

Maybe I just need to take it apart and play around with it.

 

[Rocket J Squirrel]

Mine ratchets into position every 1/6 turn. Then I have to secure it in position with a small metal bar or it instantly unwinds. Yours is different, so, as I said, just guessing. If you solve it, let us know.

 

[Newdude]

For some reason I can't picture how to do a 1/4 turn,

Loosen this nut just a little



Then rotate the holder thingie outward.



Then tighten the nut.

Then invent new curse words everytime it bites your shin.

 

[Sdhb]

Loosen this nut just a little

View attachment 570180

Then rotate the holder thingie outward.

View attachment 570181

Then tighten the nut.

Then invent new curse words everytime it bites your shin.

Thanks. In case anyone is reading this later, I eventually solved the issue by removing a few parts, lubing it all up with a silicone lubricant and putting it back together. I was expecting this to do basically nothing but turns out it solved the issue.Likely it was gunk and rust causing just enough friction to prevent the auto close from having enough force to latch, when the gate was opened minimally.