Troubleshooting Gate Operators

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Warning: Troubleshooting gates should only be done by trained service technicians due to the dangers of injury, death, and property damage from electrocution, and the possibility of crushing, breaking, or severing of limbs from moving parts. All gates should be installed and serviced by trained professionals and meet all local, state, federal, and UL guidelines and safety regulations.

If the gate closes on vehicles or people, immediately open the gate using a manual override, block access to the gate, or leave the gate closed. Once the gate is secured in the position you wish, turn off power to the gate until repairs can be made. DO NOT allow operation of the gate when it's safety devices are not operating to specifications.

Vehicular gate operators are NOT intended for pedestrian traffic. A separate "man gate" should be used for pedestrian traffic in and out of a facility.

Most gate problems occur due to a lack of maintenance or improper maintenance. Gates should be regularly serviced by a trained service technician. A regular routine of service and maintenance should be planned for in the budget and scheduled throughout each year. Typical maintenance tasks that should be performed on gates include:

  • Oil and grease gates with the recommended lubricants. This includes the chain on gates that use one. Do not use WD-40 to lubricate the chain.
  • Clean parts using the proper solvents.
  • Inspect wheels, gears, chains, and other moving parts for wear or damage and replace immediately if necessary.
  • Adjust the chain tightness regularly. Do not have the chain adjusted too tight. You should have about 2" to 3" of chain "droop".
  • Clear weeds and rocks away from the chain and gate path.
  • Keep track free from debris and in good working order (unbroken and not lifting up or bending).
  • Check the limit screws and adjustment nut regularly. Your gate should not close into it's catch with a bang. It should come to a stop just before contacting any catch fork installed on the fence.
  • Test loops, beams, and sensor edges regularly and immediately replace or repair them if not working correctly.