How to install Ryobi 65kg Hydraulic Door Closer?

[fredanglo]

 I recently purchased the Ryobi Door Closer (65kg) to be fitted to the metal / glass door located at the rear of my garage to stop the door from slamming.

1. The accompanying instructions pamphlet shows requirement to do preloading without further instruction or demonstration on how to do preloading or its meaning. What is the purpose off preloading?

The size of the metal/ glass door is 2000mm height and 760mm width.

The metal door frame has a thin metal lip (door jamb/stopper??) running on both sides and the top.

1. Using the template supplied, do I measure from the door stopper/ jamb or the main door frame? Is there a YouTube specifically for this model Ryobi Door Closer (65kg)? 

I have read a number of reviews about the product and honestly it didn't give me much confidence in installing the product. 

1. I wonder if the Ryobi Auto Door Closer (65kg) or the Ryobi Doorman (45kg) is more appropriate or better suited for my use?

I hope someone is able to guide me through the process of installation. 

I’m looking forward to additional help and advice.

Your assistance is very much appreciated.

Fred

[Nailbag]

Good morning @fredanglo 

I just went to the product page on the Ryobi website and disappointingly there is no manual available to download. So, I can't offer more accurate on installation. I can say with confidence they do make a very good quality closer.

Installation Type

To know which style of installation, I would position the body on the door and test the arm movement to what if any restrictions there are. But I would expect the standard fitment would be what you're aiming for.

If you are considering the "Parallel" installation, the arm may need to fix to the underside of the top door stop. But if thats too thin, you may need to fix a short length of aluminium tubing after spraying it with the matching colourbond colour to the door frame.

Regarding "Pre-load": it's important you select a closer model thats close in free (uninstalled) weight to that of the door closer rating. If you go with a too highly rated model, it will work, but it will be hard to open the door. I would expect a full glass door would be on the heavier side, so that closer maybe correct. @MitchellM may have further knowledge in this area or has a contact with one of the Ryobi product managers. 

The "preload" adjustment is what set's the closing pressure/speed in order for the door to close and self-latch. You may have done this before with a screen door closer, where the preload is adjusted via a screw at the back.

These are the steps for the style of closer you are considering:

Hope this helped. Regards Nailbag

[EricL]

Hello @fredanglo 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your door closer.

It's great that you've received excellent advice from @Nailbag. His description of preloading is spot on and the process of installing the door closer is perfect. My best advice is to do a test fit and not drill any holes until you are sure that the unit will fit and open properly. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[fredanglo]

Hi Nailbag,

Many thanks for your thoughtful advice and helpful information. Your diagrams on preloading are great and provided me with a better understanding. I'll give it a go. Thanks. Fredanglo

[fredanglo]

Hi Eric,
Thanks for the sound advice. Being a novice, I'm really glad that there are help from experts like you to seek advice and guidance. As you have suggested, I'll do a test fit before drilling. Once again, thank you. Regards fredanglo

[Nailbag]

You’re most welcome. And please let us know how the installation goes @fredanglo 

[fredanglo]

Hi Nailbag,

Good evening, I have great news to let you know that I have completed the task successfully. Thank you once again for your valuable advice.

[fredanglo]

Hi Eric, Great news. I’ve completed the task successfully. Once again, many thanks for your assistance. Cheers fredanglo

[EricL]

Hello @fredanglo 

Thank you for the update, it's great to hear that you've installed the door closer. If you get a chance can you please post a photo of the installed Ryobi door closer. I'm sure our members will be keen to see how you've installed the unit onto your door.

Eric