Mailbox Installation

Mailbox Installation Instructions

Please make sure you follow the printed installation instructions included with your order.

First, decide your location for your new Fort Knox Mailbox. Before moving locations from a previous mailbox location, consult your local post office for approval. Never move your mailbox out of order from the previous position without postal approval.

Now it’s time to dig a hole at the site, approximately 12” x 12” square and 4-6” deep. The standard recommended distance to start the hole is 2-3 inches from the edge of the road to the front of the mailbox face. This will be a “tabletop” for stability. As you remove dirt, pile the dirt at the back slope of the hole, if there is a slope.

Once the “tabletop” is dug, begin digging at the center of the hole with a post hole digger. Your depth will depend on which model of mailbox you purchased and also the slope of the ground. See your written instructions for this information. You will want the bottom of your mail slot or delivery door to be between 41” – 45” above the road surface.

After the hole is dug, place the post into the hole. Stabilize the post with the 4 rocks on every side. Place the level vertically on your post or on the top plate. You want the post to be somewhat vertically level at this point, but it doesn’t have to be perfect at this point.

Using your wheelbarrow or tub, mix your concrete according to the cement manufacturer’s instructions. A little bit thinner of a mix is helpful to surround the 4 rocks and reach the very bottom of the post. After the cement is mixed, pour into the hole.

Give the post a gentle shake to ensure cement reaches the bottom and surrounds the post completely. Fill the hole, including the tabletop, but leave approximately 1” at the top.

Fill the remaining 1” with the excess dirt or gravel you removed from the hole. This will give it a clean look, but also something to help hold your mailbox in position.

You may now place the Fort Knox Mailbox on the post. The carriage bolts will go up through the post plate holes. The lock washers and acorn (cap) nuts will go on the inside of the mailbox. Get all 4 sets of hardware started, then tighten down.

At this point, check your level. Make sure to give your post the required slight forward lean. The level should have at least a half bubble forward lean.

After your installation is set, after approximately 1 hour, clean the entire mailbox with WD-40 for a polished appearance and powder-coating protection.

We strongly recommend maintaining your Fort Knox Mailbox by cleaning and lubricating the surfaces, hinges, and locks 2 times a year. This will clean and protect your mailbox for many years to come.

Remember to save your key code, which is either engraved in your key, or some upgraded keys come with a metal key tag with the key code. It is also printed on your invoice. Please save this for easy ordering if needed.

Enjoy your Fort Knox Mailbox! The hard part is over!