How to Install a J Bolt Gate Hinge
If you’re installing a chain link gate in North America, and it’s a fairly heavy gate or one that will be used on a commercial or industrial chain link fence, there’s a good chance you’ll be using J bolt gate hinges to get the job done.
Let’s take a closer look at how J bolt gate hinges work and how to install a J bolt gate hinge.
What Is a J Bolt Gate Hinge?
J bolts are bolts that are bent into an L shape that is commonly used as hinge pins for heavier chain link and similar metal gates.
Unlike some J bolts that have a rounded, hooked end, the J bolts used in the fence industry simply have one bend, often with a metal ridge at the end of the threaded portion of the rod.
J bolt hinges usually have two washers and two nuts that can be used to adjust the hinge once it is installed while also keeping the hinge secure and tightly in position.
These hinges are manufactured from mild steel and usually galvanized. They come in a variety of diameters and lengths, making them suitable for a wide range of gate sizes and designs.
How Are J Bolt Hinges Used?
There are several ways you can configure a J bolt gate hinge.
In the image below, a J bolt gate hinge is used with a gate post collar and a welded lug nut on the frame of the gate.
J bolt hinges can also be used with welded plates or female gate frame hinges, or you could design another type of gate hinge using J bolts. One of the benefits of this type of simple gate hinge is that it’s very versatile and can be adapted to many types of gates.
How to Ensure J Bolt Hinges are Secure
When you’re going to the trouble of installing a fence and hanging a gate or gates, it’s safe to assume that you’re at least a little concerned about security.
There are several ways to ensure that J bolt hinges are secure, including:
- Once the J bolt hinges are in place, damage the thread or apply an epoxy adhesive so that the nut on the end of the thread cannot be removed
- Make sure that you install your hinges facing in opposite directions – one facing up and one down – this makes it harder to lift the gate off its hinges
- If your gate will only be opening one way, you could weld a flat cover strip to the opening between the post and the gate frame on the outside of the gate, which makes it harder to access the hinges
J bolt hinges are tough, durable and strong; they are also readily available in North America and can be adapted to suit many types of gates. However, they’re not the most high-security hinge option out there. If you need a gate hinge that is harder to tamper with, speak to your gate manufacturer or supplier. They should be able to recommend a hinge system that meets your required security level.
