How to Install a 9-1/16" x 3/4" Storefront Door Closer (Top Jamb Mount)

Hey guys, this is Gary with Door Closers USA. In today’s video, I’m going to show you how to install our9-1/16 in x 3/4 in storefront door closer on an aluminum glass storefront door.

What Does “9-1/16 in x 3/4 in” Mean?

This closer is identified by its mounting hole spacing:

• 9-1/16 in measured center-to-center across the body mounting holes
• 3/4 in measured center-to-center from the horizontal hole to the vertical hole

If you measure your existing closer and it matches those dimensions, this is the correct replacement pattern.

Why Storefront Doors Use Top Jamb or Parallel Arm Mounting

Most storefront doors are outswing (they swing outward away from the building).Even though many closers are “tri-pack” (regular arm, top jamb, or parallel arm),storefront doors are not typically installed with a regular arm mount on the exterior side.

For storefront aluminum doors, you want the closer installed on the interior / push sideto prevent tampering when the building is closed.

That means storefront doors usually use only two mounting methods:

• Top Jamb Mount (most common): closer body on the frame head, arm shoe on the door
• Parallel Arm Mount: closer body on the door, parallel arm bracket under the frame head

In this video, we’re installing the most common configuration: Top Jamb.

Top Jamb Mount - Step 1: Mark the Closer Body Holes on the Frame Head

For top jamb installation, the closer body mounts to the top head of the frame.Using the instruction manual, the centerline of the first hole pattern is set at:

• 7 in off the end of the frame head

A simple method is to use the closer body itself as a template:

• Measure 7 in from the edge of the frame head
• Mark the first reference point
• Hold the closer body flush with the bottom of the frame head
• Mark the remaining holes through the closer body

Holding the closer body flush with the bottom of the frame head helps ensure you have proper clearance,especially on narrow stile storefront doors.

Step 2: Drill Pilot Holes and Install the Closer Body

To make installation easier, drill pilot holes first:

• Use a small bit (example: 1/8 in) to create pilot holes
• Install using self-tapping screws (common for aluminum storefront frames)

Important: when mounting the closer body for top jamb, make sure the valves face the correct direction.The sweep and latch speed valves (typically labeled S and L) and the backcheck valveshould be oriented toward the pivot side of the door.

Step 3: Measure and Install the Arm Shoe on the Door

Next, you’ll measure for the arm shoe placement on the top rail of the door.The measurement used in this installation is:

• 1-3/4 in down from the bottom of the frame head
• 6 in over from the centerline of the closer body mounting reference hole

Once measured:

• Mark the holes
• Drill pilot holes
• Run a self-tapper into the holes first (optional, but makes final installation easier)
• Secure the arm shoe to the door

Tip: When drilling into the door, it helps to lock or secure the door so it doesn’t move while you apply pressure.

Step 4: Attach the Main Arm and Adjust the Rod Length

Attach the main arm so it is aligned straight and perpendicular to the closer body.Then pull the forearm over toward the shoe.

At first, you may find the forearm does not reach the shoe holes.That’s normal—this is where you adjust the threaded rod length:

• Unthread the rod until the arm reaches the shoe properly
• The arm should be slightly “past” the alignment point (just a little, not excessive)
• Make sure you keep enough thread engagement for strength and long-term reliability

Once the arm length is correct:

• Tighten the adjustment nut
• Secure the arm to the shoe (expect spring tension)
• Finish by tightening the arm nut to lock everything into place

A small tip: many installers prefer keeping the screw head oriented upward so it’s not fighting gravity.

Final Step: Test the Door Closer

Once the closer body and arm are fully installed, you can test the door operation.After installation, you should expect to make final speed adjustments (sweep, latch, backcheck)based on your door size, wind conditions, and safety requirements.

Final Notes

This top jamb configuration is the most common door closer install you’ll see on storefront retail doors.If you have questions about identifying your closer pattern or choosing the correct hardware,contact DoorClosersUSA.com and we can help match it up.

Thanks for watching. Please like and subscribe to our YouTube channel for more storefront door repair guides.

Watch the Video

Prefer to follow along visually? Watch the full video below to see the complete 9-1/16 in x 3/4 instorefront door closer installation step-by-step.