Why is the Von Duprin 55 or 88 series crossbar sagging?

There are a number of reasons the Von Duprin 55 or 88 series cross bar may not operate properly:

1. The hinge case spring lifts both lever arms and the crossbar. To check spring, push down on hinge case lever arm to see if the lever arm returns properly to the up position. Order and install new spring if arm droops. Spring is sold in a package of 2 each part #090003-00 or package of 10 each part #090080-00.
2. For new installations, be certain the end case is not installed upside down.  The spring action will not work properly. The upper portion of the end case is longer than the bottom portion.
3. If spring is good, check to make sure the wedgetite screws are installed properly. These screws are located on the bottom of the crossbar approximately 1" from each end. Tighten down the wedgetite screw near the hinge case end of the crossbar. Go to the other end of the crossbar and loosen the wedgetite screw, lift lever arm so that it is equal to hinge case lever arm and then tighten down the screw. The wedgetite screw is a 5/16-18 x 5/8" socket head set screw. Order wedgtite screws if necessary. Wedgtite screws are sold in packages of 2 each part #090008-00 or packages of 10 each part #090081-89.
4. There is also a finer thread old style wedgetite screw that was replaced by the current screw in the mid seventies. This screw is a 5/16-24 x 5/8" socket head set screw. This screw is still available and sold in a package of 10 each part #091082-89.