Need a much wider angle on your residential gates and doors? Especially great for homes and areas with larger vehicles like trucks, RV's, boats, and more coming and going, it's good to have some extra clearance. Luckily, the Nice Apollo 1500, 1550ETL, 1600, 1650ETL gate opener models with the 816 actuator arm as well as the Vanguard 3500 articulating arm can all be installed to open a swing gate up to 120° which will allow the gate to open wider and a little faster than in a normal installation. An alternate pivot position must be used to allow the gate operator to open up to 120°. All measurements are taken from the center of the hinge. If the pivot arm is to be attached to the hinge post, it must be modified to accommodate gate actuator clearance.
Step One: Post Location
For a 120° angle, follow the below charts for approximate dimensions to ensure that your post is square to gate and level. The key coordinates you're going to want to look for are the B & C measurements as those the measurements from hinge to post.
Step Two: Mounting the Actuator
Using the included mounting hardware, attach the bracket to your gate opener as seen in the diagram 1. From here, simply weld the bracket to the gate or attach via gate bracket according to the dimensions you measured in step one. The end result should look like the diagrams 2 and 3.
- Mount chassis to post (shaft on opposite side of gate when closed)
- Attach gate bracket to structural member - NOT gate pickets
- Bracket centerline 1/2" above pivot arm top
Step Three: Setting Limits for 120°
Next you're going to want to set limits on the control board for you actuator. Refer to the manual of your control board for details on where to locate the limit settings as seen here.
- Close limit: Arms must lock over center (past 90°) for secure closure
- Open limit: Adjust to achieve 120° (or desired angle)
- Use magnet collars - close LED should illuminate when gate stops
Diagram 1
Diagram 2
Diagram 3
Additional Customization
With that, your swing gate opener arm should be able to open all the way up to 120° with no problem! For additional customization options, be sure to check out our helpful Manuals and Specifications page to find the specs for your Apollo Swing Gate opener and program it how you want! Manuals & Specifications Shop Swing Gate Openers
