Product Description
Commercial Drop Rod Fork & Pin Latch — Weld-On, Galvanized Pressed Steel (Fits 1-5/8″ or 2″ Gate Frames)
- Build Your Own Drop Rod — Welds to 1-3/8″ O.D. pipe to create a heavy duty double-gate cane bolt
- Fork Sizes for Clean Latching — Choose 1-5/8″ or 2″ fork to fit 1-5/8″ or 1-7/8″ O.D. gate uprights
- Galvanized Protection — Pressed steel with a durable zinc coating to resist rust and corrosion outdoors
- Reliable Hold — Fork-and-pin action brings both leaves together before the rod seats in a center stop
- Premium Fabrication Piece — A proven component for commercial and industrial chain link double swing gates
Fabricate a long-lasting drop rod for chain link double swing gates with this galvanized pressed-steel fork & pin latch. Weld the latch to a 1-3/8″ O.D. pipe to create a rigid rod, select the fork size that matches your gate upright, and pair with drop-rod guides and a center stop for a secure, low-maintenance closure. The galvanized finish stands up to weather and daily use on busy sites.
Why Choose This
- Right-fit geometry — dedicated fork sizes for common round gate frames
- Durable hardware — pressed steel body with a protective galvanized coating
- Smooth operation — brings leaves together and keeps the rod tracking true when used with guides
- Fabricator friendly — simple weld-on design integrates into custom drop-rod assemblies
Specifications
| Fork Size |
1-5/8" | 2" |
| Actual Gate Frame Size (O.D.) | 1-5/8" | 1-7/8" |
| Drop Rod Size (O.D.) | 1-3/8" | 1-3/8" |
| Weight | 1 lb | 1 lb |
| Material | Galvanized Pressed Steel | Galvanized Pressed Steel |
| Finish | Silver (Galvanized) | Silver (Galvanized) |
| Typical Usage | Commercial / Industrial Double Swing Gates | Commercial / Industrial Double Swing Gates |
Installation
Weld the fork & pin latch squarely to a straight length of 1-3/8″ O.D. pipe to create the drop rod. Mount two drop-rod guides on the active leaf (one high, one low) and align the fork to capture the opposite upright (1-5/8″ or 1-7/8″ O.D. depending on model). With both leaves closed, insert the latch pin through the fork around the opposite upright, then lower the rod into a compatible center stop. Verify free movement and adjust guides for smooth travel.
Buying Guide
- Select fork size: Match the fork to your opposing gate upright (1-5/8″ or 1-7/8″ O.D.).
- Choose rod material: Use straight 1-3/8″ O.D. pipe for the drop rod; add a ground center stop for positive hold.
- Guide it: Plan on two drop-rod guides to keep the rod aligned and reduce wear.
- Finish & environment: Galvanized steel is suitable for most sites; inspect periodically in coastal/high-salt conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size gate frames does each fork fit?
- The 1-5/8″ fork fits 1-5/8″ O.D. uprights; the 2″ fork fits 1-7/8″ O.D. uprights.
- What pipe should I use for the drop rod?
- Use 1-3/8″ O.D. chain link pipe for the rod section.
- Is this a weld-on part?
- Yes. The fork & pin latch is designed to be welded to the 1-3/8″ pipe.
- Do I need a center stop?
- Yes. For secure closure and to prevent leaf drift, pair the rod with a compatible center stop at the gate centerline.
- How many guides should I install?
- Use two guides per rod—one near the top brace rail and one near the bottom—for smooth, straight travel.
Comparison
- Weld-On Fork & Pin Latch (this item): Most rigid and durable for commercial/industrial gates; tailored to frame size.
- Bolt-On Cane Bolts: Faster install on light gates but generally less robust than a welded assembly.
