Single Action Spring Hinge Adjustment: Step-by-Step Guide

This guide covers how to install and adjust the spring tension on a standard adjustable single action spring hinge. Two adjustment methods are covered — the tension lever tool method and the hex wrench method — depending on your hinge model.

Method 1

Adjusting with a tension lever tool

Step 1 — Install the hinge

Install the hinge in the normal manner with the tension adjustment facing up. The tension adjuster must always be at the top.

Step 2A — Close the door

Place the door in the fully closed position before beginning tension adjustment.

Step 2B — Insert the tension lever tool

Insert the tension lever tool into the right-hand hole of the adjustment slot. (Figure 1)

Step 2C — Rotate and insert tension pin

Rotate the tension lever tool to the left and loosely insert the tension pin to the right of the tension lever tool. (Figure 2)

Step 2D — Release and seat the pin

Release the tension lever tool until the tension pin contacts the right-hand side of the adjustment slot.

Step 2E — Test closing force

Remove the tension lever tool and test the door's closing force. If not satisfactory, repeat steps 2A–2E to add another increment of tension.

Step 2F — Drive the pin flush

Once all hinges are adjusted to close the door properly, drive the tension pin flush with the hinge barrel.

Spring hinge tension adjustment diagram

Caution

  • Do not exceed 3 holes of tension for doors with a 180° swing.
  • Do not exceed 4 holes of tension for doors with a 90° swing.
  • Always install hinges with the tension adjustment facing up.

Method 2

Adjusting hex head type spring hinges

Some spring hinges use a hex wrench (Allen wrench) instead of a tension lever tool. Install the hinge with the tension adjustment facing up, then follow these steps:

Step A — Close the door

Place the door in the fully closed position.

Step B — Insert hex wrench

Insert the hex wrench into the hole on top of the barrel. (Figure 3)

Step C — Rotate and insert locking pin

Rotate the hex wrench clockwise and loosely insert the tension locking pin into the locking pin hole.

Step D — Release and seat the pin

Release the hex wrench until the tension locking pin contacts the side of the hole.

Step E — Test and repeat if needed

Remove the hex wrench and test the door's closing force. Repeat steps A–E until the desired closing force is achieved.

Step F — Drive the pin flush

Once all hinges are adjusted correctly, drive the tension pin flush with the hinge barrel.

Hex wrench Allen wrench spring hinge adjustment diagram

No Tool? No Problem.

Most single action spring hinges are packaged with a tension lever adjusting tool. If one was not included, you can use a 2"–3" finishing nail, an ice pick, or any thin steel object that fits into the holes and allows you to rotate the hinge spring.

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