How to Replace the Break-away Mechanism

SportFence™ sold by Specialty Recreation prior to January 1st, 2003, had a break-away mechanism that would occasionally get hung up and cause the tee fitting at the base to break. Since the introduction of the NME Model and current SportFence™ Model, there have been no problems. This is because the new design has flawless reliability and high quality in manufacturing. We Warranty it for the Life of the Fence.

Adapting the new breakaway mechanism to the older SportFence™ II Model is simple:

Included with the break-away mechanism is one footcap (which will be needed when replacing the sliding foot)

Tools needed: Hack saw or Sawsall, drill with a #26 bit (.135-.147” ), hammer, clear PVC Cement, small chisel or screw driver, tape measure, pop rivet gun and some .133” pop rivets.

1. Always remember the height of your fence is exactly 42” from the top to the ground. Have a tape measure handy while you are working.

2. With a hack saw, cut one end cap off and slide the leg out of the broken piece. Save as much leg as possible.

3. Remove all rivets around the broken fitting.

4. Remove the broken piece by carefully cutting a horizontal slits in the broken fitting… thereby facilitating peeling away the fitting from the pipes without damaging the pipes themselves. If you are replacing both break-aways on the fence, remove them at the same time.

5. After you have exposed the vertical and horizontal pipe ends, you can now put in the new break-away mechanism. (Make sure you clean the parts prior to putting PVC cement in the new couple.

6. Working quickly, place the fitting in the corner. (this might take some force)

7. When the fitting is in place, measure the height at 42”. If it is short, pound the fitting outward until the fence is 42”.

8. Maintaining the 42” measurement, quickly drill a hole and place the rivet. (Note: the glue is strong but must still be reinforced with a rivet.) Pounding the fitting outward (horizontally and vertically) will also tighten up the mesh.

9. Replace the sliding foot and place the new cap with PCV cement.

10. If the replacement is done properly on both ends, your fence will now have our 3 Year Limited Warranty.

11. Don’t hesitate to call us at 866-637-6329 and we can walk you through the process.

Have fun!!!!