Chain-Link Fence Post

Tools:

shovels
board
auger stake
five-gallon bucket
socket wrench
adjustable wrench
twine
level
ratcheting cable winch 'come along'
steel cable
gloves
gate
mounting hardware
cement

1. Dig out some soil on the side of the post away from the direction it's leaning (figure A).

2. Drive an auger stake into the ground about five to 10 feet away from the post, again on the side away from the direction the post is leaning. Use a short section of 2x3 to twist the auger stake into the ground.

3. Attach the ratcheting cable winch between the stake and the post (figure B) and pull the post into position until it is plumb. Attach the cable near the bottom of the fence post and use a level to tell when it is plumb.

4. Next, move the winch and attach it to a fence post off to the side of the one you're working on to pull the original post plumb in that direction (figure C). Reattach the post to the end cap.

5. Fill a five-gallon bucket about half full with concrete mix, then add water and mix until the concrete reaches an oatmeal-like consistency. Pour the concrete into the hole to set the post in place permanently. Tamp the concrete smooth using the piece of 2x4 (figure D).

6. Tie two pieces of string so that they form an "X" across the area where you want to mount a gate. If the two posts are in alignment, the strings should just barely touch in the middle (figure E).

7. Use the socket wrench to attach the hinge hardware loosely to the posts, leaving them free to move a bit. Install smaller hardware pieces to the gate, then lift the gate onto the lower hinge and move the top hinge into position (figure F). Tighten all hardware.

8. If mounting a double gate, repeat on the other side (figure G). Attach the lock and drop rod hardware with the bolts and socket wrench.