Which gate opener Usautomatic, Apollo or Liftmaster

[Ironman]

US Automatic uses the actuators that Apollo used to use. Apollo has changed actuators and circuit boards and started having problems. The guy I used was an Apollo tech and now only deals with US Automatic. He did have good things to say about Liftmaster and their versatile options. US Automatic works on a European operating frequency, so something like your operator buttons in your truck won't work, as they are using American operating frequencies. You can, however, add a device to the control board to the US Automatic that will accept American operating frequencies. I have a double 8' gate that is solar operated.
As far as keypads go, I built a double gooseneck and have two keypads mounted at different heights for both cars and trucks. I also found covers for the keypads to protect them from the elements. I concreted in a 2' long receiver hitch into the ground so I can pull the keypad gooseneck out in order to grade my gravel entrance.

[smokin6.7]

I've had an Apollo for about two years now with no problems. Mine runs off a marine battery hooked to a single solar panel. I think with the battery and a few extra remotes I was right at $1500.

[Ironman]

Here is a picture of the double gooseneck and keypad covers.




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[sureshot]

I have a 10 year old patriot by US Automatic and have only had to change the battery once. Very happy with it

Same here. My parents have one also and haven't had any problems with it.

[parkchief100]

US Automatic uses the actuators that Apollo used to use. Apollo has changed actuators and circuit boards and started having problems. The guy I used was an Apollo tech and now only deals with US Automatic. He did have good things to say about Liftmaster and their versatile options. US Automatic works on a European operating frequency, so something like your operator buttons in your truck won't work, as they are using American operating frequencies. You can, however, add a device to the control board to the US Automatic that will accept American operating frequencies. I have a double 8' gate that is solar operated.
As far as keypads go, I built a double gooseneck and have two keypads mounted at different heights for both cars and trucks. I also found covers for the keypads to protect them from the elements. I concreted in a 2' long receiver hitch into the ground so I can pull the keypad gooseneck out in order to grade my gravel entrance.

Thanks for the info! That's a very nice setup! Good job! There's a lot of good info so far, not sure which way to go. We live on a dead end road and there won't be much traffic in and out. I want one that is dependable, solid and with all the bells and whistles to make life easier.

[speck1]

I've had an Apollo for about two years now with no problems. Mine runs off a marine battery hooked to a single solar panel. I think with the battery and a few extra remotes I was right at $1500.

I have had the same setup on 3 gates for 10 years. Replaced one battery in that time. No other issues at all.

[hogmess]

We have an Apollo. Had it for 4-5 years know and no problems.

[Drycreek3189]

The gates can't be pushed open as the motor won't move without unlocking the arm. Liftmaster has the operators, keypads, and phone app for everything you need, except for alerting you when someone is at the gate. You'll either need a driveway chime that will ring when someone drives over it, or a telephone entry keypad that a guest can call you on. There may be another option that I'm not aware of, but I don't think so.

LA412 operator with solar, Almost any keypad, and an 828LM to connect the operator to your home network and allow phone app access.

The other option is the one I've been using for twenty years. You get to the gate, you call me, I open the gate. It works every time.

[JustinJ]

The other option is the one I've been using for twenty years. You get to the gate, you call me, I open the gate. It works every time.

[parkchief100]

Liftmaster is my preference due to ease of installation and tech support. I sell both weekly, and have converted a lot of my customers from apollo over to the liftmaster. To the OP how big is the gate, where a lot of folks run into issues is they have and under powered operator for the gate they have. Things to consider length, weight and wind load when trying to find the right operator.

The gate is 16 foot.

[Ironman]

The US Automatic Patriot is good for a gate up to 16' and 650lbs.

[parkchief100]

Any recommendations on companies out my way to purchase from and do the install? Thanks!!!

[parkchief100]

Up

[parkchief100]

Any recommendations on companies out my way to purchase from and do the install? Thanks!!!

Up again for the above information.

[smokin6.7]

I bought my Apollo from Lee Products in Alvarado. Not sure if they install them..? http://metalranch.com/product-category/gate-opener/