How to Install a Self-Closing Gate Spring

Swimming pool owners must install gate springs on pool enclosures to meet municipal building codes. It takes only a few minutes to install a gate spring with only a few basic tools. Whether the gate opens to the left or right, the springs attach to the gate in a similar manner.

1. Position the gate spring with the top side up onto a spot approximately halfway down the gate, with one side on the gate post and the other on the installed gate. Make marks through the gate spring's mounting holes on both the gate and the gate post.

2. Drill pilot holes through the gate and gate post on the spots you marked. Attach the gate spring to the gate and gate post using the screws in the assembly kit. If you are attaching the gate spring to a metal gate use self-tapping metal screws of a similar length to those in the kit. Attach the gate spring to masonry by drilling holes in the masonry and using anchors for the screws.

3. Set an adjustable wrench on the torque adjustment on top of the gate spring. Some models provide a metal bar that you insert into a specified opening on the top of the gate spring. Rotate the wrench or bar to the right to put torque on the spring. Slide the “Stop” device from the assembly kit into its receptacle on the top of the spring.

4. Open the gate and allow it to close on its own. If it doesn’t snap shut, remove the stop device and rotate the wrench or bar to the right another turn. Replace the stop device. Continue tightening the spring until the gate closes the way you want it to.