How to put a garage door spring on?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! I’m your friendly neighborhood garage door technician, here to tackle one of the most daunting DIY projects: replacing garage door springs. Let me be clear from the start: this is a job best left to professionals. Garage door springs are under immense tension, and improper handling can lead to serious injury or even death. However, we understand that some homeowners are determined to try it themselves. So, if you’re going to attempt this, please read this guide carefully and proceed with extreme caution. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or unsure, please call us at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com. We’re here to help!

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 functions. There are primarily two types: torsion springs and extension springs.

Torsion Springs: These are mounted above the garage door opening and wind or unwind to provide the necessary force to lift and lower the door. They are generally considered more durable and safer than extension springs, but also more complex to replace.

Extension Springs: These are located along the horizontal tracks on either side of the garage door. They extend and contract to provide the lifting force. They are generally less expensive but also less durable and considered more dangerous due to their exposed location and potential for snapping.

Identifying Your Springs: Look closely at your existing springs to determine which type you have. Note the color coding on the springs (if any), as this indicates the spring’s size and strength. This information is crucial for ordering the correct replacement springs.

Safety First

I cannot stress this enough: safety is paramount when working with garage door springs. Here’s a list of essential safety precautions:

• Never work alone. Have a helper present to assist you and call for help if needed.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves. This will protect your eyes and hands from flying debris and sharp edges.
• Unplug the garage door opener. This prevents accidental activation of the opener while you’re working on the springs.
• Secure the garage door. Use clamps or locking pliers to prevent the door from moving while you’re working on the springs.
• Use the correct tools. Using the wrong tools can damage the springs or cause them to fail.
• If you’re unsure, call a professional. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Tools You’ll Need

Assuming you’re proceeding with caution and have a helper, here’s a list of tools you’ll need:

• Winding bars (for torsion springs): These are specifically designed for winding and unwinding torsion springs. Do not use screwdrivers or other substitutes.
• Wrenches: You’ll need wrenches to loosen and tighten bolts and nuts.
• Pliers: For gripping and manipulating small parts.
• Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers may be needed.
• Safety glasses and gloves.
• Ladder.
• Clamps or locking pliers.
• New garage door springs (correct size and type).

Replacing Torsion Springs: Step-by-Step

This is a general guide, and specific steps may vary depending on your garage door system. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.

1. Secure the Garage Door: Use clamps or locking pliers to secure the garage door in the down position. This is crucial to prevent the door from flying open when you release the spring tension.
2. Loosen the Set Screws: Locate the set screws on the spring’s winding cone. Use a wrench to loosen these screws.
3. Insert Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into the winding cone and use it to hold the spring in place.
4. Loosen the Spring: Insert the second winding bar into the winding cone and use it to carefully unwind the spring. Rotate the bar upwards, transferring the tension from the first bar to the second. Repeat this process until the spring is fully unwound.
5. Remove the Old Spring: Once the spring is fully unwound, carefully remove it from the torsion tube.
6. Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly.
7. Wind the New Spring: Insert one winding bar into the winding cone and use it to hold the spring in place. Insert the second winding bar and use it to wind the spring. The number of turns required will depend on the spring’s size and the door’s weight. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of turns.
8. Tighten the Set Screws: Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone.
9. Remove the Winding Bars: Carefully remove the winding bars.
10. Test the Door: Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift and lower the door to ensure it operates smoothly.

Replacing Extension Springs: Step-by-Step

Again, this is a general guide, and specific steps may vary. Always consult the manufacturer’s instructions.

1. Secure the Garage Door: Use clamps or locking pliers to secure the garage door in the down position.
2. Disconnect the Existing Spring: Carefully disconnect the old spring from the track and the safety cable.
3. Install the New Spring: Attach the new spring to the track and the safety cable. Ensure the safety cable is properly threaded through the spring.
4. Stretch the Spring: Carefully stretch the spring to the correct length and attach it to the other end of the track.
5. Test the Door: Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift and lower the door to ensure it operates smoothly.

FAQs

Q: How do I know what size springs to buy?

A: The best way to determine the correct spring size is to measure the existing springs. Note the wire diameter, inside diameter, and length of the spring. You can also look for color coding on the springs.

Q: How many turns do I need to wind a torsion spring?

A: The number of turns required depends on the spring’s size and the door’s weight. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of turns. A general rule of thumb is one turn per foot of door height, plus an additional quarter turn.

Q: What is a safety cable, and why is it important?

A: A safety cable is a cable that runs through the center of the extension spring. It prevents the spring from flying off and causing injury if it breaks.

Final Solution

After installing your new springs, it’s crucial to properly lubricate them. Use a garage door lubricant specifically designed for springs. This will help to reduce friction and extend the life of the springs. Regularly inspect your springs for signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or stretching. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace the springs.

A Word of Caution

Replacing garage door springs is a dangerous task. If you are not comfortable working with high-tension springs, please call a professional. MM Garage Door Repair Utah has experienced technicians who can safely and efficiently replace your garage door springs. We offer competitive pricing and excellent customer service. Don’t risk your safety – let us handle the job for you.

We hope this guide has been helpful. Remember, safety is always the top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you keep your garage door operating safely and smoothly.

Ready to leave this to the experts? We understand! Contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah today for a free consultation and estimate. Call us at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com. Let us spring into action for you!