In place of hinges or pivots which connect the hinge side stile directly to the door frame, Ellison uses heavy-duty cast bronze arms which connect the head and bottom door rails to a spring loaded shaft. The shaft, which can be concealed or exposed, provides a mechanical advantage during opening and closing. Rather than using floor mounted checks, the unique Ellison hydraulic check mechanism is concealed in the overhead frame member. This design permits easy adjustability and maintenance without removing the door.