Alligator Brand Bolt Hook for Strap Hinge

Long bolt-hook hardware for a strap-hinge gate repair, with a threaded anchor and projecting hinge pin.

Match the hinge before drilling

Start by matching this bolt hook to the strap hinge already on the gate. Compare the shank diameter, overall reach and pin position against the removed part; a near-match can still put the gate out of line. Measure the opening before taking old hardware apart. Gate clearance depends on hinge arrangement and swing direction, so account for the arc at the latch side and the ground clearance under the moving edge. This 18-inch hook is long hardware for a through-post mounting, not a small surface hinge.

Check the post and hole

Inspect the mounting point before drilling. Soft, split or loose wood cannot hold the nut securely, and a worn hole may let the pivot shift under the gate. Confirm post thickness and room behind it for the washer and nut, then mark the bore square to the hinge leaf. Do not enlarge an old hole by guesswork: compare the measured shank and hardware arrangement first. If the post moves or the gate is heavy, correct the support problem before fitting the new hook.

Test the full swing

Support the gate at its intended height while aligning the hinge. Once mounted, swing it through its full travel before final tightening. Watch the bottom edge for ground contact and check that the latch side clears the post and nearby fence. A gate that drags or self-closes may be out of level or have a post that flexes. Correct alignment before tightening the nut; the bolt hook cannot compensate for a weak post or badly braced gate.

Choose a matching system

The 2-1/2-inch pin and 3/4-inch shank are the useful fit checks for this part. Match the companion strap hinge to those dimensions and to the gate construction. Gate width, weight, bracing and post strength affect hinge load. Keep the old hinge with you when comparing parts, especially when replacing one side. After the first open-and-close cycles, check that the nut remains secure and the gate still clears its opening.

Product analysis

3/4-inch bolt-hook shank; 18-inch length; 2-1/2-inch pin.