How to fix misaligned gate latch?

[koalaroo]

The gate and fence have moved over time causing this. Whats the cheapest way to resolve this. Thanks 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @koalaroo,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

The simplest solution is to shift the d-latch or the tongue slightly so they line up better, but this will not fix the underlying issue. 

Is it possible to get some photos from further back showing how things sit in relation to each other? Specifically, I'd like to see where the gate attaches to the post.

For the latch to become misaligned, either one of the posts has moved or the gate's hinges have sagged, so the best solution is to identify what has shifted and move it back to where it was and brace it so that it stays where it is supposed to. If we can identify the issue, then rectifying this would be the best way to go.

I will assist further when you can provide a few more photos.

Jacob

[koalaroo]

Hi. Pls see more images. Thanks 

 

[JacobZ]

Hi @koalaroo,

Thank you for the additional photos. They make me suspect that the post and panel to the right of the gate are the culprit. 

If you pull on the top of the post, can you get it to move at all?

If you can pull it over slightly, you should be able to brace it off the structure to the right using some H3 Framing and batten screws.

Is there anything further to the right, possibly a boundary fence, that could be used to brace the gate post?

Another option, which wouldn't be as clean, is to attach some H3 framing to the inside of the post and unscrew and reattach the latch to the new timber so it is further over.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[koalaroo]

Is there a longer latch (the horizontal part) I can use instead so it can extend further to the right and can compensate for the gap? Wouldn't that be easier?

[Noyade]

Can you @koalaroo, or someone else weld an additional piece of flat steel to the existing length?

[koalaroo]

Yes that's what I am asking for ..except just a piece that I can buy and not have to get into welding

[JacobZ]

Hi @koalaroo,

I've had a good look, and I can't find a latch with that style of attachment (two vertical holes) that appears longer than the one you have.

@Noyade's idea of welding an extension to the latch could be an idea.

If you didn't know anyone who could weld, you could just attach one of these Carinya 57 x 17 x 2mm Zinc Plated Mending Plates, or something similar to the existing latch.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob

[AlanM52]

Hi @koalaroo,

I am proposing to use a connector plate.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/search/products?page=1&q=connector+plate&sort=BoostOrder

Remove the gate post hardware and install a connector plate.

If needed mortice the plate into the post and secure with four hex head timber screws.

Spray paint to blend in with the timber post

Align the D-latch, mark and drill pilot holes for hex head metal screws.

Down the track if the gate post moves remove the connector plate and elongate the holes with a rat tail file.

Another suggestion using @Noyade idea is to fabricate a (extended) gate arm from a connector plate.

Cheers

[Noyade]

"just a piece that I can buy and not have to get into welding"

Fair enough.

If you're interested I'm more than happy to fabricate a longer section for your gate. I just need dimensions.

No cost.

Cheers. 😁