How to change a garage door spring?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! I’m your expert garage door technician, and today we’re tackling a question I get asked a lot: “How do I change a garage door spring?” While it might seem straightforward, replacing garage door springs is a dangerous task best left to professionals. These springs are under immense tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. However, for informational purposes and to highlight the complexities involved, I’ll outline the process. But please, seriously consider calling us at 801-418-9217 before attempting this yourself. Your safety is our top priority.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before we dive into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand the different types of garage door springs and their function. There are primarily two types: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs: These are mounted above the garage door opening. They work by twisting to provide the necessary force to lift the door. Torsion springs are generally considered more durable and safer than extension springs, but they also require specialized tools and knowledge to replace.

Extension Springs: These are located along the horizontal tracks on either side of the garage door. They extend and contract to lift and lower the door. Extension springs are typically easier to identify and are often found on older or lighter garage doors.

Identifying the type of spring you have is the first step in understanding the replacement process. Regardless of the type, remember that both store a tremendous amount of energy and can cause severe harm if mishandled.

Safety First A Critical Warning

I cannot stress this enough: Garage door springs are dangerous! The following steps are for informational purposes only. I strongly advise against attempting this repair yourself. Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah at 801-418-9217 for safe and professional spring replacement.

Safety Precautions:

• Never attempt to replace a spring without the proper tools and knowledge.
• Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Never stand directly in the path of a spring under tension.
• If you are unsure about any step, stop and call a professional.

Replacing Torsion Springs Step-by-Step

Again, this is for informational purposes only. Proceed with extreme caution and at your own risk.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Winding bars (correct size for your spring)
• Wrenches
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Vice grips
• Ladder

Steps:

1. Secure the Door: Clamp the garage door in the fully closed position using vice grips on the track just above the rollers. This prevents the door from accidentally opening during the spring replacement.
2. Loosen the Set Screws: Locate the set screws on the winding cone of the spring. Use a wrench to loosen these screws.
3. Insert Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into the bottom hole of the winding cone. Use the bar to carefully unwind the spring, inserting the second winding bar into the next hole as you go. Continue unwinding until all tension is released.
4. Remove the Old Spring: Once the spring is fully unwound, carefully remove the winding bars and detach the spring from the center bracket and end bearing plate.
5. Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (check the wind direction – left or right wound). Attach the spring to the center bracket and end bearing plate.
6. Wind the New Spring: Insert the winding bars into the winding cone and carefully wind the spring, using the appropriate number of turns (usually indicated on the spring or by measuring the old spring).
7. Tighten the Set Screws: Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone.
8. Remove the Vice Grips: Carefully remove the vice grips from the track and test the garage door to ensure it operates smoothly.

Replacing Extension Springs Step-by-Step

Remember, this is for informational purposes only. Extension springs are also dangerous and should be handled with extreme care.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Wrenches
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Ladder
• Clamps

Steps:

1. Secure the Door: Clamp the garage door in the open position using vice grips on the track below the rollers. This prevents the door from accidentally closing during the spring replacement.
2. Disconnect the Old Spring: Disconnect the spring from the track bracket and the cable. Be extremely careful, as the spring may still have some tension.
3. Install the New Spring: Attach the new spring to the track bracket and the cable. Ensure the safety cable (if present) is properly threaded through the spring.
4. Test the Door: Carefully remove the vice grips from the track and test the garage door to ensure it operates smoothly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful installation, you might encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and potential solutions:

• Door is too heavy or too light: This could indicate that the spring tension is not properly adjusted. You may need to add or remove a quarter turn of tension on a torsion spring, or adjust the position of an extension spring.
• Door is uneven: This could be due to one spring being weaker than the other. Ensure both springs are properly adjusted and consider replacing both springs at the same time for balanced performance.
• Door makes excessive noise: This could be due to lack of lubrication. Apply a garage door lubricant to the springs and rollers.

FAQs About Garage Door Spring Replacement

Q: How long do garage door springs last?

A: The lifespan of a garage door spring depends on usage and maintenance. Typically, they last between 5 and 10 years.

Q: Should I replace both springs at the same time?

A: Yes, it’s highly recommended. If one spring breaks, the other is likely nearing the end of its lifespan as well. Replacing both ensures balanced performance and prevents future issues.

Q: Can I use any spring to replace my broken one?

A: No. You need to use a spring with the correct dimensions, wire size, and wind direction. Using the wrong spring can be dangerous and damage your garage door.

Final Solution Call MM Garage Door Repair Utah

While this guide provides information on how to change a garage door spring, I want to reiterate the dangers involved. The best and safest solution is to call a professional technician at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We have the experience, tools, and expertise to replace your springs quickly and safely. We’ll ensure the job is done right, preventing potential injuries and damage to your property.

Don’t risk your safety. Let the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah handle your garage door spring replacement. We’re here to help you keep your garage door operating smoothly and safely.

Ready for a hassle-free and safe garage door spring replacement? Contact us today for a free quote! Call MM Garage Door Repair Utah at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com. Let us spring into action for you!