Where to get a swimming pool gate tensioner tool?

[CP2]

I need to adjust the tension on this self-closing pool gate. I need a tensioning tool to apply sufficient force to adjust it. Where can I get the correct tool?

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @CP2. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about tensioner tools.

That is quite an old gate and hinge system. In my years I've never seen a Downey fitting gate hinge that has an auto closer within it. That's a fairly complex device for a rudimentary system. Given that I haven't come across one before, I am unaware of what tool would be used to adjust the tension. Do you happen to know what the tool would look like? Hinges these days typically utilise a pin that gets located in specific holes to govern tension.

The other option would be to add a coil gate spring, which will increase the closing force of the gate, provided it doesn't offer a hand/foot hold and complies with pool fence legislation.

Let me tag @Nailbag, @Noyade and @Dave-1 to see if they have any thoughts.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @CP2 

Sorry I do not know of what the tool would look like and havnt adjusted that type before.

My head went straight to adding a spring to close the gate but not sure if that fits the rule for self closing gates for pools. (It may be an idea to check what teh rules are with your local council regaurding self closing pool gates)

Just been looking for awhile and even tho I know its on the tip of my tongue I cant think of the name of the product, Ive tried

cyclone fence 

Steel mesh fence

Tubular fence.

Now you will have me look at tubular gates as I pass them

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @CP2 could you please send through a photo from the other side at the same angle. 

Nailbag

[CP2]

Mitchell, thankyou. I am still struggling with the gate for other reasons but we appear to have worked out how to tension the gate by inserting a short  length of round steel into each hole (there is one on either side) and turning it. This is a two person job but seems to work. Re the Council rules concerning an external spring, I suspect  that it may not be allowed as they may consider it to used as a toe hold for toddlers. I think the gate may be made by ARC but they haven't been able to help. The gate is 42 years old. I will follow up the enquiry with ARC and the Council.  Thanks again Chris.

[CP2]

Dave, thanks for the info. I may have solved the tensioning part of the gate problem by inserting two bits of steel rod into both holes (one on each side of the gate). (a two person operation). I'll see how it goes but if I necessary I will check with council to see if fitting an external spring is allowed.

Thanks again Chris.

[CP2]

Nailbag' yhe reverses side is the same ie, I small hole which I have managed to now used to tension the spring by inserting small steel rods. So far this  appears to work..During this (hopefully) problem solving session I took the Bunnings advice and checked  with the BMCC Safety Check List.It appears to me that one could fit an external spring gate closing spring device under their regs.However after looking at Bunnings UTubes re self closing gates they are only suitable for timber gates and not one like mine which are made of a a pipe frame and gal rods.I can't see how I could attach them to my steel gate.  It was a good thought! Thanks.

Chris.