How replace garage door spring?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked about DIY repairs. One of the most common questions we receive is: “How do I replace my garage door spring?” While we always recommend professional service for safety reasons, we understand the desire to tackle home repairs yourself. This post will provide a comprehensive guide, but please remember that garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or even death if handled improperly. If you’re uncomfortable with any of these steps, please call us at 801-418-9217 or visit mmgaragedoorrepair.com for professional assistance.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Before we dive into the replacement process, 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 and twist to provide the lifting force. 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 door. They extend and contract to provide the lifting force. They are generally easier to replace than torsion springs, but can be more dangerous if they break due to the potential for them to snap back.

Identifying the type of spring you have is the first step in determining the correct replacement procedure. This guide will primarily focus on replacing torsion springs, as they are the more common and potentially dangerous type.

Safety First

WARNING: Garage door springs are under extreme tension. Improper handling can result in serious injury or death. If you are not comfortable with this procedure, please contact a qualified garage door technician. Always wear safety glasses and gloves during the replacement process.

Before you begin, ensure the garage door is fully closed and secured. Unplug the garage door opener to prevent accidental operation. Place locking pliers or C-clamps on the track just above the rollers to prevent the door from moving while you’re working.

Tools and Materials Needed

To replace a torsion spring, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

• New torsion spring(s) – Ensure you have the correct size and wind direction (left or right wound).
• Winding bars – These are essential for safely winding and unwinding the springs.
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Adjustable wrench
• Socket set
• Screwdrivers (both flathead and Phillips head)
• Locking pliers or C-clamps
• Ladder

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Torsion Springs

Step 1: Loosen the Set Screws

Locate the set screws on the winding cone (the cone at the end of the spring). Use an adjustable wrench to loosen these screws. Do not remove them completely.

Step 2: Insert Winding Bars

Insert one winding bar into a hole on the winding cone. Use the bar to hold the spring in place while you loosen the set screws further.

Step 3: Unwind the Spring

Carefully unwind the spring by moving the winding bar upwards. Insert the second winding bar into the next available hole and alternate between the two bars, gradually releasing the tension. This is the most critical and potentially dangerous step. Take your time and maintain a firm grip on the winding bars.

Step 4: Remove the Old Spring

Once the spring is fully unwound, loosen the set screws completely and remove the winding bars. Disconnect the spring from the center bracket and the end bearing plate. Slide the old spring off the torsion tube.

Step 5: Install the New Spring

Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (left or right wound). Connect the spring to the center bracket and the end bearing plate.

Step 6: Wind the New Spring

Insert both winding bars into the winding cone. Wind the spring by rotating the winding bars downwards. The number of turns required depends on the height of your garage door (typically around 30-35 quarter turns for a standard 7-foot door). Consult the spring manufacturer’s instructions for the correct number of turns.

Step 7: Tighten the Set Screws

Once the spring is fully wound, tighten the set screws on the winding cone securely. Remove the winding bars carefully.

Step 8: Lubricate the Spring

Apply a garage door lubricant to the spring to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.

Step 9: Test the Door

Remove the locking pliers or C-clamps from the track. Manually lift the garage door to ensure it operates smoothly and stays in the open position. If the door is difficult to lift or doesn’t stay open, you may need to adjust the spring tension slightly.

Final Solution

After replacing the spring, it’s essential to check the balance of the door. Disconnect the garage door opener and manually lift the door halfway. If it stays in place, the balance is correct. If it drifts up or down, you may need to adjust the spring tension. If you are not comfortable adjusting the tension, call a professional.

FAQs

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

A: The best way to determine the correct spring size is to measure the old spring’s wire diameter, inside diameter, and length. You can also look for markings on the spring itself.

Q: What does “left wound” and “right wound” mean?

A: These terms refer to the direction the spring is wound. If the spring is on the left side of the center bracket and the coils wind upwards, it’s a left-wound spring. If it’s on the right side and the coils wind upwards, it’s a right-wound spring.

Q: Can I replace just one spring?

A: While it’s possible, we highly recommend replacing both springs at the same time. This ensures balanced operation and prevents the other spring from failing prematurely.

Safety Note

Remember, working with garage door springs can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable with any of these steps, please contact a qualified garage door technician. Your safety is our top priority.

Replacing a garage door spring can be a challenging task, but with the right tools, knowledge, and caution, it can be done safely. However, if you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s always best to call a professional. At MM Garage Door Repair Utah, we’re here to help with all your garage door needs. Our experienced technicians can quickly and safely replace your garage door springs, ensuring your door operates smoothly and reliably.

Don’t risk injury or further damage to your garage door. Let the experts at MM Garage Door Repair Utah handle your spring replacement. Call us today at 801-418-9217 for a free quote, or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to schedule an appointment. We’re not just fixing doors, we’re securing peace of mind. So, skip the DIY drama and dial our digits – your garage door will thank you!