Well this is the update on the automatic gate opener. Many people recommended the Apolo Gate Opener.I did get several quotes and was surpised at how wide the quotes were re the price. Once again ES came through and Dodgecowboy21 recommended a gate installer who lives in my area. I called him and worked out the details and it is now installed. This man did a great job and would be happy to recommed him if any one has a need. I much perfer to have people recommended to me who are going to do work for me. It is great not to have to get out of the truck when the weather is bad. Now that I have the gate opener installed the backup position is still available for the right cowboy. I want to thank everyone for their input, I really appreciated the information shared. Vicky

If you're still lookin... I'll add my vote to the Apollo systems. I've got 4 on my place and installed another for a neighbor. The swinging gate systems work great. Never had much problem with any of them, they'll push through 2 feet of snow without a hitch. I've got one sliding gate and that thing's a constant hassle. If you are lookin at an Apollo, I know a guy in Texas that sells them. I've dealt with him a few times. Great guy to deal with. I can get you his name and number if you want it.

ladyinlevis, "but sometime you just gota take a chance" Good advice! Thanks!!

Thanks for the replys and I do have a few comments to the replys. cowboysheart - a slow gate opener would be fine. I am old enough to know that except on a horse fast is not always the best. I'd love to call someone to open the gate for me but my dogs won't pick up the phone and the cat can't be bothered. I won't call the horses cause if they can open the gate for me I'm in a lot of trouble. Rancher - what a good idea finding a cowboy companion by looking for a gate opener. I haven't bought the gate opener yet so the cowboy companion spot is still open. Also if I find the right cowboy companion I'll keep him after I have the gate opener and will even give him a romote control. I've heard that guys really like remote controls. luvshorses I will check with my neighbors and talk to them about their openers. twobits - I spoke with two contractors and they both recommended the Apollo. I do appreciate your input on the Apollo. slowdance I understand being practical but sometime you just gota take a chance. Thanks everyone for your input.

I'm sorry but I could not help myself, but to chime in on this subject, being a practical engineer kinda guy.... The ground settles and it don't work...... It gets dirty and don't work...... Key pad, gets tempermental and .... The power quits, and it don't open or really close.... etc, etc. Dang-it I need to get through..... The most reliable gate opener in CO is a cell phone: "dad, would you please..." Sweetie, I'm almost ....." If I was a rich man, or wanted something else to maintain, I would have an automatic opener. Me, it just causes a few seconds extra to get out, open, take a look around, make sure all is well, close and know it is (precious stuff inside that gate!), and be done.

Lady...now that the smart azzzzzes are done LOL We have an Apollo w/ a solar charger...its been up about 5 yrs now and no problems!!! We are about 2 hrs due east of you so I am thinking the weather would be pretty much the same. Bitsy

Three cowboys in a single seat pickup, know which one is smarter... the one in the middle, not driving and will not have to open gates....

cowboysheart did her question go right over my old cowboy head. I may better head to the barn and leave this computer in the burn barrel. Was she going about locating a cowboy companion by calling him a "gate opener"? And there I was pouring my little heart out on a geuine answer filled with caution type adivice.

How fast of a gate operer do you want lol Well I just might be looking for a new job lol I am a little slow some time

Lady...you're in 'Automatic gate' heaven!! Ask some of your neighbors what they think of their gate - who the manufacturer is, who did the installation, are they satisfied - why/why not... Check your local yellow pages for gate/fence contractors, talk to them, tell them you want a 'quote' - they'll help guide you to choices, and are happy to 'educate you' in the hopes of making a sale. You will learn things you didn't even know to ask!! (I used to be in the commercial construction business...)