I’m getting ready to tackle some fencing projects that will include installing several tube gates.
The hinge bolts are 3/4" threaded rod.
I want to hear peoples takes on whether I should use a 3/4" auger bit or a 7/8"?
For a wooden post I use a 1/2 inch auger bit for the screw in threaded hinge bolts. Just had to replace a gate post two days ago after Golden Boy the Wonder Horse cut the corner to fast hit the post with his right hip breaking the hinge post off at the ground and proceeded to tear down a section of three rail fence.
along with the 1/2 inch bit I also used a lot of curse words digging the old post out, they were greater than 1/2 inch
If metal post then … will guess its not metal since you are using an auger bit… but if the “The hinge bolts are 3/4” threaded rod." that go all the way through the post then use a bit the size of the rod. There would then need to be a nut with fender washer on both sides of the post
To clarify, I’m using wood posts with the through bolt hinge. I’m sure a 3/4" bit would get the job done, but I was thinking a 7/8" bit would make easier work of getting the bolt through - but does it make it too sloppy?
Even with a bolt that goes all the way through the post, out the other side and has a nut to hold it, you do not want it loose and jiggly. It might be easier to slide the bolt hinge through with a bigger hole, but you’ll have issues in short order. The bolt hinge should be quite snug in the hole. So no, I would not use a 7/8s auger. I’d use a 2/3 or 11/16 auger. Then use the closed end of a combination wrench over the hinge and a mallet or hammer to screw the bolt hinge through the opening.
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shoot some oil in the drilled hole to help with the threading the pin through
This.
Mr Squirrel has installed 14 gates on our property over the past few years and this is how he does it. It’s a good workout for him. :lol:
Thanks for your input.
You want to use a speed bit that allows the threads of the gate hinge to have something to hold onto. So, if the outside edges of the gate hinge are 3/4", take a look at the core of the hinge, and go with that. I use a 5/8" bit most of the time. Then, I use a pair of vice grips on the round part of the hinge, and turn it in. Be sure to measure the distance between the hinges on the gate carefully, and then mark on the post accurately so that you don’t 1. have a gate the falls open or shut because the holes aren’t lined up vertically, or 2. have one hinge bearing too much of the weight.
I have custom gates that are mesh, and very heavy. I learned the hard way how to do them right! :winkgrin:
