A Comprehensive Guide to Installing and Automatic Slide Gate Opener

How to Install an Automatic Slide Gate Opener

Installing a slide gate opener can enhance the security and convenience of your property. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Preparation

• Tools and Materials: Gather all necessary tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, drill) and materials (gate opener kit, concrete, mounting hardware).
• Site Inspection: Ensure the gate is level and slides smoothly. Check for obstructions along the gate's path.
• Power Supply: Verify the availability of a power source near the gate.

Foundation and Mounting

• Mounting Pad: Starting a few inches from the gate's track, dig an area approximately 2ft x 2ft x 2f (you will need to get to the frost line). Pour a concrete pad for the gate opener unit. Ensure it's level and adequately cured.
• Mounting posts: If you use a mounting post, determine the location of said posts and install before pouring concrete. The mounting posts will hold the opener unit in place.
• Mounting Stand: If you use a mounting stand, install the mounting stand onto the concrete pad. This will hold the opener unit in place.

Install the Gate Opener

1. Place the gate opener on the concrete pad.
2. Install the cover of the gate opener.
3. Move the gate forward and backward to ensure the gate does not touch the cover, yet it's as close as you can get it to the gate.
4. Remove the cover to expose the chassis.
5. Use a sharpie to mark the 4 holes of the chassis on the concrete pad
6. Remove unit
7. Drill holes
8. Reinstall the unit to align with the drilled holes
9. Insert bolts
10. Secure bolts and ensure it's firmly in place.

Install Chain Brackets 

• Use a string stretching from the bottom of the idler pulleys (found at the rear of the chassis), to determine the height of the chain as well as how far they should protrude.
• Clamp the brackets to the front and the rear of the gate and re-test alignment.
• Weld or attach the no-weld-chain-brackets to the gate
• Connect the chain bolt to the chain brackets
• Connect the chain to the chain bolt and run the chain through the gate motor.
• Adjust the tension as needed.

Electrical Connections

• Connect the opener to the power supply according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure all connections are secure and weatherproof.

Safety Devices

• Photo Eyes: Install photoelectric sensors on the post next to the gate opener and wire into the motherboard to power up. Install the reflector on the opposite site and align with photoeye.
• Safety Edges: Attach safety edges to the gate. Wire the edge to the transmitter of the wireless edge kit. Wire the receiver of the wireless edge kit into the main board. Test that when you touch the edge it sends a signal to the board.

Test and Adjust

• Initial Test: Power on the unit and test the gate operation. Check for smooth opening and closing.
• Adjustments: Fine-tune the settings for speed, force, and limits. Ensure the gate stops and reverses upon encountering an obstacle (test both the edge and the photoeye).
• Warning signs: install provided warning signs on the gate

Final Checks

• Backup Power: If your opener includes a battery backup, ensure it's properly connected and functional. To do so, cut the power off and test the unit.
• Remote Controls: Program remote controls and test their operation from various distances.
• Manual Release: Familiarize yourself with the manual release mechanism in case of a power outage.
• Test accessories: test that all other accessories such as keypads, loops, intercoms etc. are working properly.

Maintenance Tips

• Regular Inspection: Periodically check the gate and opener for signs of wear or damage.
• Lubrication: Keep moving parts lubricated to ensure smooth operation.
• Clean: Periodically clean the inside and outside of the unit to discourage crawlers and pest from residing in your gate opener.

Conclusion

Installing a slide gate opener can be a rewarding DIY project that adds value to your property. Always refer to the specific instructions provided in your opener's manual for detailed guidance and safety precautions. For more detailed instructions, you can view/download the manual for each product on the product's page itself. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to our support team at EliteGates.net.

Happy installing!