How to put springs on garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we’re often asked about DIY repairs. Today, we’re tackling a critical and potentially dangerous task: replacing garage door springs. While we strongly recommend professional assistance for this job, we understand some homeowners are determined to do it themselves. Therefore, we’re providing a comprehensive guide on how to put springs on a garage door. However, please remember that working with garage door springs can be extremely hazardous and can lead to serious injury or even death if not done correctly. If you’re at all unsure, please call us at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com for expert assistance.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of your garage door, making it easy to open and close. There are two main types of garage door springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door opening, while extension springs are located along the sides of the door, above the horizontal tracks. This guide will primarily focus on torsion springs, as they are the more common type and generally considered safer to work with (though still very dangerous!).

Safety First

Before we delve into the steps, let’s reiterate the importance of safety. Garage door springs are under immense tension, and releasing that tension improperly can cause them to snap, resulting in severe injury. Never attempt this repair without understanding the risks and taking proper precautions.

• Wear safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Wear gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and potential pinching.
• Use the correct tools: Using the wrong tools can lead to accidents.
• Never stand in the path of the springs: Always stay to the side.
• Unplug the garage door opener: Prevent accidental operation of the door.

Tools You’ll Need

Gather these tools before you begin:

• Winding bars: These are specifically designed for winding and unwinding torsion springs.
• Wrenches: For loosening and tightening bolts.
• Vice grips: To secure the torsion tube.
• Safety glasses and gloves: As mentioned above.
• Ladder: To reach the springs.
• New garage door springs: Ensure they are the correct size and type for your door.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Torsion Springs

Step 1: Secure the Garage Door

Before you do anything else, ensure the garage door is completely closed. Clamp the door to the tracks using vice grips or C-clamps to prevent it from moving during the repair. This is crucial for your safety.

Step 2: Loosen the Old Springs

This is the most dangerous part of the process. Insert one winding bar into the winding cone of the spring. Loosen the set screws holding the spring in place. With the winding bar securely in place, insert the second winding bar above the first. Slowly and carefully unwind the spring by moving the bottom winding bar upwards, one quarter turn at a time. Alternate between the two winding bars, ensuring you maintain control of the spring at all times. Repeat this process until the spring is completely unwound. Repeat this process for each spring.

Step 3: Remove the Old Springs

Once the springs are fully unwound, loosen the bolts holding the stationary cone to the center bracket. Slide the spring off the torsion tube. If you have two springs, repeat the process for the second spring.

Step 4: Install the New Springs

Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (the winding cone should be on the outside). Secure the stationary cone to the center bracket with the bolts. If you have two springs, repeat the process for the second spring.

Step 5: Wind the New Springs

This is the reverse of unwinding. Insert one winding bar into the winding cone. Wind the spring by rotating the winding bar downwards, one quarter turn at a time. The number of turns required will depend on the height of your garage door (typically around 30-35 quarter turns for a standard 7-foot door). Consult your spring manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of turns. Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws to secure it in place. Repeat this process for the second spring, ensuring both springs are wound evenly.

Step 6: Secure the Torsion Tube

Make sure the torsion tube is properly aligned and secured to the header bracket. Tighten all bolts and screws.

Step 7: Test the Door

Remove the clamps from the garage door tracks. Carefully lift the door manually to test its balance. If the door is difficult to lift or doesn’t stay in place, you may need to adjust the spring tension slightly. If the door seems balanced, reconnect the garage door opener and test its operation. Watch the door closely as it opens and closes to ensure it moves smoothly and evenly.

Troubleshooting

Door is still heavy: You may need to add more tension to the springs.

Door slams shut: You may have too much tension on the springs.

Door is uneven: The springs may not be wound evenly.

FAQs

How do I know what size springs to buy?

Measure the length, wire size, and inside diameter of your old springs. You can also find this information on a sticker on the spring itself or by contacting a garage door professional.

Can I replace just one spring?

While technically possible, it’s highly recommended to replace both springs at the same time. This ensures even wear and tear and prevents one spring from failing prematurely.

How often should I replace my garage door springs?

Garage door springs typically last for 7-10 years, depending on usage. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or unusual noises, it’s time to replace them.

Final Solution

Successfully replacing garage door springs requires patience, precision, and a thorough understanding of the process. If you encounter any difficulties or feel uncomfortable at any point, please don’t hesitate to call a professional. Your safety is our top priority.

Safety Note

Working with garage door springs is inherently dangerous. If you are not comfortable with this type of repair, please contact a qualified garage door technician. MM Garage Door Repair Utah is here to help!

We hope this guide has been helpful. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you’re still unsure about tackling this project yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah. We offer fast, reliable, and affordable garage door spring replacement services. Don’t risk injury or further damage to your garage door. Let our experienced technicians handle the job safely and efficiently.

Ready to say goodbye to your garage door spring woes? Give us a call today at 801-418-9217 for a free quote! Or, visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to schedule an appointment. Let MM Garage Door Repair Utah spring into action for you!