If you are using an aluminum storefront or other narrow frame door closer solutions, you’ll need a drop plate to create a stable surface that lets you position your door closer correctly. This requires securing the plate to the door or frame, mounting the closer body, attaching the arm, and adjusting the settings.
This guide walks you through five simple steps on how to effectively install a door closer with a drop plate, including practical tips for a secure and long-lasting installation every time.
Before mounting any hardware, confirm that the door, frame, and selected door closer mounting plate meet the minimum requirements for a secure installation. Many pull-side and push-side layouts require a top rail between 1½” and 2½”, while some top jamb installation applications call for a minimum face frame of 1⅜”
Next, review door conditions such as width, weight, and the desired opening angle. If the door uses offset pivots or swing-clear hinges the drop plate and shoe must align with the hinge or pivot centerline, as required across all major installation templates.
Finally, confirm the frame material can accept structural fasteners. Hollow metal and aluminum frames may need reinforcement, as recommended by ANSI/SDI-100.
Clean the mounting area and confirm that the top rail or frame meets the minimum height requirements. Many commercial diagrams specify 1½”–2½” top rail minimums depending on the mount type for proper arm rotation. For top jamb installation, verify that the frame face is deep enough to provide solid screw engagement.
Next, prepare all required tools and confirm fastener sizes. Drop plates generally use structural screws to anchor to the frame and machine screws to attach the closer. Some plates may require a ½” or ⅝” spacer block to support the fifth mounting screw and create a flush surface for reliable door closer bracket support.
Position the drop plate according to the installation template, aligning it with the hinge or pivot centerline. Make sure to mark all hole locations, drill pilot holes, and secure the plate using 1/4-14 structural screws, tightening them evenly to prevent flexing or distortion.
In cases where a spacer block is required, install a ½” or ⅝” block to ensure full support for the additional screw. Make sure the drop plate sits flush and rigid to prevent misalignment.
Now attach the closer body to the drop plate using 1/4-20 machine screws. Before installing the arm, turn the backcheck selector valve fully clockwise to avoid hydraulic pressure spikes as the arm is first cycled.
Once this is done, install the arm and bracket following the door handing and opening requirements. Many parallel-arm configurations allow 180° openings, while certain top-jamb or push-side mounts limit the door to 120° based on the plate and closer combination. Cycle the door manually to confirm smooth movement and proper arm alignment.
Finally, adjust sweep, latch, and backcheck controls in small increments, typically in ⅛ turns, to fine-tune operation. Uneven closing may indicate improper alignment between the closer body and the drop plate or insufficient door closer bracket support.
Confirm that structural screws remain tight and that no plate movement occurs during repeated cycles. A properly adjusted closer should provide controlled movement, full latching, and consistent resistance throughout its range.
Using a drop plate provides the stability and alignment needed to mount a door closer properly on narrow or limited frame surfaces. By following these steps and verifying each detail during installation, you can ensure reliable performance and long-term durability in demanding commercial environments.
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