Frequently Asked Questions About Gate Openers

1. What is a Mighty Mule gate opener?
   A Mighty Mule gate is a remote controlled automatic gate opener system. It is the industry leading gate opener available for the ‘Do-It-Yourself’ installer. Because it is battery operated and uses low voltage power, it is safe (no electrician needed), affordable, and easy to install.
2. How is a Mighty Mule gate opener powered?
   All Mighty Mule gate openers are low voltage systems with a 12 Volt battery back up system. This assures operation of your gate during a power outage. The battery can either be charged by the Transformer (included with Mighty Mule gate openers), or can be charged by optional solar panel(s).
3. How do I install the solar panels?
   The Mighty Mule solar panel (G56501) is a complete kit for easy mounting within 2.4m of the control box. If your panel(s) must be placed farther away than 2.4m (up to 250 ft.) to receive maximum sunlight, additional low voltage wiring will be required. It is important that the solar panels face North and are placed in full sunlight, away from overhanging trees, or any obstacle that may shade the panel(s).
4. Will the Mighty Mule open during a power outage?
   Yes. A fully charged 500 or 502 battery will provide an average of fifty (50) cycles (open and close) and the 350 battery (12 Volt car or marine - battery not included) provides up to 1500 cycles during a power outage. This number can vary depending on factors such as the type of gate, number of accessories added and weather conditions if using solar panel(s) to charge the battery.
5. Can I manually open the gate?
   Yes. Each opener arm is mounted to the brackets on the post(s) and gate(s) with clevis pins and clips. By removing the pin and clip at the front end, the arm can be removed and allow the gate to be opened manually.
6. What happens if the gate opener hits something?
   All Mighty Mute gate openers have built-in safety obstruction sensing which will cause the gate(s) to "Stop" and "Reverse" its direction for two seconds if it comes in contact with an object. If the gate comes in contact with the object twice before returning to its fully open or close position an alarm will sound for 5 minutes.
7. Is the Mighty Mule gate opener difficult to install?
   No. Most installations can be completed easily in two to three hours. Dual gates will take slightly longer because two operator arms are required. All installations can be completed with tools commonly used by most homeowners. Kits include an installation DVD (see box for options).
8. What maintenance is required?
   All Mighty Mule gate openers are designed to be virtually maintenance free. However, it is recommended that the push-pull tube be sprayed once a month with a good grade "silicone" spray. DO NOT use an oil based spray as this will attract sand and dirt.