Roy Baldone wrote:

The 2x4 running from post to post held the gate up for 10 - 15 years,
but is split all to hell when the screws ripped out. The gates
FAILURE was NO DOUBT aided by the climbing of 2 children that thought
this easier then opening the gate.

Another possibility is just to replace the 2x4, with either the same,
or a doubled 2x4.

You'll definitely need a new 2x4. You can either sister a new one in
next to the old one, or replace it. Heck, ten years is a good lifetime
for a fence, so consider replacing the whole panel.

--
Steve Bell
New Life Home Improvement
Arlington, TX