Electric Gate Opener Recommendations?

[jaxgt]

Folks,
Looking to install an electric gate opener for our 8 or 9' metal drive way gate. It's a single gate, in need of a swing style opener. The various local installers I have spoken with sadly know less than I. I'm assuming some of you guys have installed before. Any particular brands/models serve you well, or not well ? I'm guessing our gate when complete will weigh maybe 400 lbs or so. Thanks !

 

[HHGT]

Mitch, I have an 11' wide gate by 10' at the crown and it is a single gate. I have 2 hinges that are rated for 1500 lbs each. The gate itself weighs approx 950 lbs. If you need to put 3 hinges on put 2 within proximity at the top and one on the bottom to have a single line of axis along the centerline of the hinges for both the open and closed position. The hinges are welded into a separate frame and have grease fittings. The better hinges incorporate a copper type of washer (reduces friction) so that the steel of the square style hinges does not erode from friction over time.

After much analyses, I decided to go with a Viking Gate Opener with a telephone/camera security box - these are the most reliable. The gate can be opened via a certain code inputted via your telephone key pad plus the wireless openers. The general rule I found out about gates is to always go for the next size up specification wise as you do not want to stress the motor and gears most of which are plastic now. Most of the openers come with a manual key for overriding the lock mechanism. You should also consider a 300lb magnet as a minimum which is electrically charged to prevent anyone from using a crawbar in an attempt to override the motor/locking gears and the magnet helps with unstressing the hinges when it is closed.

With regards to a Knox box aka Fire Box, the local fire captain (a friend) told me that many thieves just bust them open to open the gate and gain entry. Most Fire Depts can just cut the gate opener to gain access. You should also set your timer for a maximum of 10 seconds in the open position (2 cars easily) and also consider not installing a loop detector on the inside and just use your wireless remote.

I hope this helps. If you need further help or pictures call or email me.

Cheers!

BTW, curious how the other issue has/has not been resolved.

 

[Specracer]

I look at gates as 2 separate pieces, the actual operator, and then the communication that triggers the operators. For the operator best I have seen is FAAC http://www.faacusa.com/ita/products/automated-systems-gates-and-barriers.html
They have several versions, even an in ground where almost nothing is visible.

The communication is easy, door king, crown jewel, Viking, even a phone system (like a panasonic KSU system) will all do the trick. Mitch, pm me and I'll get you my contact info if you want any input from the many I have been involved with.

 

[6s219]

I have had good luck with Elite Openers. (http://www.elitegates.net/)

These openers also can be integrated with your phone system and your computer system. If you create "user codes" for your gardener or house keeper or pool cleaner or..... the computer will time stamp when and who entered the property. If a code is used to exit the gate again the user code code will be timed stamped so you will know when they entered and when they exited your property.

I also like the idea of the electromagnet that HHGT suggested.

 

[mardyn]

We've got two Patriot openers for our gates... both have been in service for about 6 years.
While they both have been OK, that's about all... main cylinder slide bearings & tube seals in both
actuators have significant wear and are not easily replaceable.

I'm constantly having to readjust stops and setting on both gates...

We'll be looking else wear when these finally fail for good.

mardyn

 

[HHGT]

I have had good luck with Elite Openers. (http://www.elitegates.net/)

These openers also can be integrated with your phone system and your computer system. If you create "user codes" for your gardener or house keeper or pool cleaner or..... the computer will time stamp when and who entered the property. If a code is used to exit the gate again the user code code will be timed stamped so you will know when they entered and when they exited your property.

I also like the idea of the electromagnet that HHGT suggested.

Correction on my post... Mine are Elite...Sorry Mitch....

 

[Specracer]

Oh yeah, another detail that I have done for clients, forget the Knox box, tie it into the fire system, such if the fire alarm goes off, gate opens. That simple, and will save you the damage of them coming in anyway if a false alarm.