auto-coop doors

[ShannasPeeps]

How did you make your door?

 

[Mehjr10]

I built mine using a 12vdc car window motor attached a circular disk bored in center attached a rod half the distance of the travel, toward the outer edge of the disk. This rod is attached to the top edge of to guillotine type door. The advantage here is that when the door is in the closed position the rod is pressing down on the door and can not be lifted. I have two single pole timers, one for open one for close, wired with an upper and lower limit switch. All runs on a 12vdc lawnmower battery. Had all the parts on hand to build. If i build a second one I will probably buy linear actuator and a timer, the actuator has limit switches built into it and they have timers that will do both open and close.

 

[Achickenwrangler#1]

I agree with the pulletshut door...it's great. You can get different options too, solar charge, or electric..and either light sensor or time program. I'm getting another one for the broody side. Its recommended to protect it from freezing rain/snow, as anything mechanical. It is also pressure sensitive, so if a hen is standing there it won't squash her. No predators can open that clamshell.
I think that if someone had the knowledge and experience to build an autodoor, they might be able to save some money, but when you calculate all the extra expenses, it seems very reasonable cost wise. Like, welding material, if you have the machines, trips to round everything up, labor time itself. Return trips to the hardware store, time spent searching for parts. Time to make the thing...then there's the programming...like I said, if you have the expertise, which I don't, I consider that I am paying for that too. Well worth it and very reliable.

 

[ShannasPeeps]

thanks to both Mehjr10, and chickenwrangler, I will take both into consideration!

 

[Mehjr10]

No problem, if you need pics or more detailed information send me a message. Good Luck

 

[Happy Chooks]

I have 2 from Foys pigeon supply. (inside mount with light sensor) They work off batteries, so you don't need electrical in your coop. They are worth every penny and in over 3 years, I haven't had any predator get in.

 

[Hawgon]

I also use the Pullet-Shut door and love it. Has worked flawlessly so far and last week was solid on keeping Raccoonzilla out (the biggest one I have seen). Easy to program and install. I dont have the light sensor, wish I had now, but it is very easy to setup. I like the all metal construction, sealed control unit and no pulleys, cords or switches to go haywire. Highly recommend it.

 

[Achickenwrangler#1]

Really like that set up. You know you can add on a photo sensor pretty cheap. Check it out.

 

[makemineirish]

I am not sure that I would trust the chickens to be this predictable, but what a cool idea! It is a CHICKEN-OPERATED door.

 

[Achickenwrangler#1]

Hahahahahaha! That's great.