Setting up a bi-fold door to minimize repairs
The most important part of setting up a bi-fold door to minimize future maintenance, is to keep the pin extensions as short as possible. This will reduce the leverage exerted on the pin.
Use the right size drill bit when installing new pins. Be aware that closet door manufacturers will typically specify a 7/16" drill bit which is often too small, and prevents the pin shaft moving freely.
In these situations, use a 15/32” drill bit. This will yield a slightly larger hole, which will still hold the pin firmly, and allow the pin mechanism to function.
Don't use larger drill bit sizes beyond 15/32" or attempt to auger out the hole. If the hole is too large or misshapen, the pin will rock under load causing damage and increased wear
Use a fixed position type of bottom pivot bracket. The open slot bracket is not worth the time saved setting up the doors. The fixed position bracket prevents the doors being easily knocked out of allignment.
Overtightening screws will often cause damage, as well as stripping the material the screw is going in to. The short hinge screws on bi-fold doors are particularly prone to stripping from overtightening. Better to use a low clutch setting, and finish off by hand turning the cordless drill to snug the screw down
Use a repair bracket as a guide when enlarging holes for pins. Drilling without a guide to prevent the drill taking the easiest path in the soft material, often results in the hole being off center. You can use heavy masking tape to secure the guide in place, before drilling.
When attaching repair brackets to doors, always drill pilot holes for the screws. Door repairs often fail because a screw without a pilot hole will start splits in the wood that will get worse, and require further repairs.
Pivot brackets becoming loose is a common cause of damage. This is often because a well-worn Philips screwdriver tip has been used to tighten the screw. Avoid problems by always using a nut driver to tighten pivot bracket screws.
Another common pivot bracket issue is caused by using a bracket intended for a slightly narrower track. It looks similar, but will not grip the track flanges securely.
Reduce the leverage the handle can exert on the doors by positioning the handle in the center of the lead door.