How To Maintain Your Driveway Gate Hinges

How To Maintain Your Driveway Gate Hinges

While driveway gates don't need much in the way of maintenance, they do require occasional care to keep them operating at their best. If driveway gates and their operating gear are neglected, then operational problems are likely to occur and could cause the need for expensive repairs.

Maintenance requirements will vary depending on the type of gate you are using, as well as the operating mechanism. However, there is usually a high degree of commonality when it comes to driveway gates, as most gates use either hinges or chain openers. Below is more information on how to maintain these two components. 

Gate hinges are fairly simple, but a failure to keep them maintained can have negative consequences. There are two types of gate hinges in widespread use, and both of them will need lubrication.

The first type of gate hinge is the sealed bearing gate hinge, consisting of a top-mounted hinge assembly that surrounds the gate's upper hinge pin. The hinge assembly uses a flange bearing to provide support and permit ease of gate movement. The bearing is sealed, so it usually doesn't need much attention.

However, the joint between the pin and bearing will need to be lubricated annually to prevent corrosion and problems with operation. To lubricate a sealed bearing hinge, you will need a grease gun and a highquality, all-purpose grease designed for heavy duty applications.

Begin by locating the Zerk fitting, which is a small nipple that attaches to the end of a grease gun, and squirt grease into the opening until it flows from the bearing. Wipe away any excess grease with a paper towel or shop rag.

The other type of gate hinge, the barrel hinge, consists of a simple housing attached to the adjacent post and a gate-mounted pin that slips into the housing. If the joint between the pin and housing becomes dry and loses its lubricant, then excessive wear can occur to both the housing and pin. The end result is excessive wear that can cause difficulty with opening the gate and may also result in the gate sagging.

As with the sealed bearing gate hinge, you will need to lubricate the joint with heavy duty grease. Attach the grease gun to the fitting on the hinge and fill the reservoir until it overflows. Remove the excess grease with a rag or towel once you are finished. Repeat this process of lubrication once a year, as the more open barrel hinges need lubrication more frequently.