Commercial door closers

Handy Person from Onancock, Virginia

Jul 17, 2026 12:55 pm

We purchased 2 closers from Swisco, item # 79-253. They were perfect replacements for our original door closers. We made the adjustments for controlling the closing of the doors. However they are very hard to open, from either side of the door, pulling or pushing open. I feel sure there is an adjustment that can correct this issue. Please advise.
thank you
Eddie

2 user uploaded images

4 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 24, 2026 2:22 pm

Thank you for your patience during this incredibly busy season. I apologize for the long wait.

You are right, the 79-253 can be adjusted. If you look at those three holes on the side, they contains screws that you can turn to moderate its performance.

Hopefully this helps, but please let me know if you had any other questions.

Handy Person from Onancock, Virginia

Jul 24, 2026 4:31 pm

I did use those 2 adjustment screws for the closing speed and latching firmness... I'm asking about the amount of push it takes to open the door pushing inward and the amount of strength it takes from the inside to pull the door open.. the closing speed and latching is fine. I did adjust that with those 2 screws....
arr you referring to the circle with the 3 smaller holes? Is there a special tool to fit that to loosen the tension?
please advise?
thanksEddie

Dave Sr. from SWISCO

Jul 28, 2026 1:38 pm

Hey there, maybe I can help. What I've done in the past was to disconnect the closer arm at the elbow, then take the screw out of the gear arm attached to the closer body. With the screw removed, lift off the arm and move it closer to the handle side of the door. It's a little tricky to set the arm, so you'll need to be patient as you angle it in. But once you have the arm in place reattach the screws and arms. You might need to lengthen or shorten the arm attached to the header on the door to get it to close correctly.

Otherwise it sounds like you installed the closer correctly. I just find that sometimes to get the perfect fit, you need to go "off book" and adjust the arm over a notch.