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How to fix metal gate latch?

Hi 😊

I’ve got a metal fence where the gate latch has disconnected from the metal gate post. Where the latch screws into the post looks to me like over time has worn the hole and now the the screw does not grip in to the existing hole (hope I’m making sense). Is it just a matter of getting a larger screw and drilling it into the post, or is there another way of securing the screw into the now too large hole? See photo attached of the latch and screws.

TIA for any help

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Comments

Noyade

Hi @Leann .

Any chance of a photo showing the post and gate? And in particular, the size of the screw holes in the post.

Cheers.

EricL

Hello @Leann

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your gate latch.

I propose moving the entire gate latch assembly 2cm hinger on the post and gate. The distance will still be the same, but you will now have a fresh area to install into. This will save you from having to patch or attach any secondary plate on the surface of your gate and post.

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag and @Noyade for their recommendations.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

Nailbag

Hi @Leann

@Noyade is a resident anything metal expert, but for what it's worth I would drill new holes just inside of the original ones as pictured. They want be elongated as per the original ones which have the benefit of slight adjustment.

Nailbag

Screenshot 2025-12-17 at 7.03.13 pm.png

AlanM52

Hi @Leann,

I was passing by and dropped into this discussion.

My thoughts are with you simply use a larger screw like the next size up and if needed drill out the latch holes.

Assuming you have a cordless drill with torque settings and the speed set to low (Screw) not high (Drill) and...a correctly fitting hex bit.

Start with a low torque setting and wind up until the screw starts to bite, click up one more and it should drive nicely.

Cheers

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/60617#Comment_60617

Good Morning @Leann

I would be shifting the latch up or down a little and redoing the latch if possible.

You could use a larger screw size but think the problem will return sooner then if you freshly installed the latch into a new position.

Any chance of a photo as @Noyade asked? It could change what we are suggesting.

Dave

Noyade

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/92777#Comment_92777

I just like to see the patient - before operating. 😁

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