How to replace garage springs?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked about DIY repairs. Today, we’re tackling a common but potentially dangerous question: “How to replace garage door springs?” While we always recommend professional service for safety reasons, we understand the desire to handle minor repairs yourself. This guide will provide a detailed overview, but please proceed with extreme caution. Remember, your safety is paramount, and we’re always just a phone call away at 801-418-9217 if you need assistance.

Understanding Garage Door Springs

Garage door springs are under immense tension, providing the counterbalance that allows you to easily lift and lower your heavy garage door. There are two main types of springs: torsion springs and extension springs. Torsion springs are mounted above the garage door opening, while extension springs run along the sides of the door. Identifying the type of spring you have is crucial before attempting any replacement.

Safety First A Critical Warning

Before we delve into the steps, it’s vital to emphasize the dangers involved. Garage door springs can cause serious injury or even death if mishandled. The high tension stored within these springs can release with tremendous force. If you are not completely comfortable working with high-tension mechanisms, please call MM Garage Door Repair Utah at 801-418-9217. We are happy to help ensure your safety and a properly functioning garage door.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

If you’re determined to proceed, gather the following tools and materials:

• New garage door springs (correct size and type)
• Winding bars (for torsion springs) or safety cables (for extension springs)
• Safety glasses
• Gloves
• Adjustable wrench
• Vice grips
• Ladder
• Marker or tape

Replacing Torsion Springs Step-by-Step

Note: This is a simplified guide. Always consult a professional if you are unsure about any step.

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 process.
2. Loosen the Set Screws: Locate the set screws on the spring’s winding cone. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen them.
3. Insert Winding Bars: Insert one winding bar into a winding cone hole. Use the other winding bar to hold the spring in place while you loosen the set screws.
4. Unwind the Spring: Carefully unwind the spring by moving the winding bar upward, one quarter turn at a time. Repeat until all tension is released. This is the most dangerous part, so proceed slowly and deliberately.
5. Remove the Old Spring: Once the spring is fully unwound, loosen the set screws on the stationary cone (the one attached to the center bracket). Slide the old spring off the torsion tube.
6. Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (left-wound or right-wound).
7. Wind the New Spring: Insert the winding bars and wind the spring the same number of quarter turns as you unwound the old spring. Consult the spring’s specifications for the correct number of turns.
8. Tighten the Set Screws: Tighten the set screws on both the winding cone and the stationary cone.
9. Remove the Vice Grips: Carefully remove the vice grips from the track.
10. Test the Door: Slowly raise and lower the garage door to ensure it operates smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments.

Replacing Extension Springs Step-by-Step

Note: This is a simplified guide. Always consult a professional if you are unsure about any step.

1. Secure the Door: Clamp the garage door in the fully open position using vice grips on the track, just below the rollers.
2. Secure the Spring with Safety Cables: If your extension springs don’t already have safety cables running through them, install them now. These cables prevent the spring from flying off if it breaks.
3. Detach the Old Spring: Disconnect the spring from the track bracket and the cable.
4. Install the New Spring: Attach the new spring to the track bracket and the cable.
5. Adjust the Tension: Adjust the tension of the spring by moving the cable along the track.
6. Remove the Vice Grips: Carefully remove the vice grips from the track.
7. Test the Door: Slowly raise and lower the garage door to ensure it operates smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful execution, you might encounter some issues:

• Door is too heavy or too light: This indicates incorrect spring tension. Adjust the winding (torsion springs) or cable position (extension springs).
• Door is uneven: This suggests that one spring is weaker than the other. Inspect both springs and adjust accordingly.
• Door makes loud noises: This could be due to lack of lubrication. Apply garage door lubricant to the springs and rollers.

FAQs About Garage Door Spring Replacement

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

A: Measure the old spring’s length, wire diameter, and inside diameter. You can also consult the garage door manufacturer’s specifications.

Q: Can I replace just one spring?

A: We strongly recommend replacing both springs at the same time, even if only one is broken. The other spring is likely nearing the end of its lifespan and will soon fail, leading to another repair.

Q: How often should I replace my garage door springs?

A: The lifespan of garage door springs depends on usage and maintenance. Generally, they last between 5 and 10 years. Inspect your springs regularly for signs of wear and tear.

Final Solution When in Doubt Call a Professional

Replacing garage door springs is a complex and potentially dangerous task. If you’re uncomfortable with any of the steps outlined above, or if you encounter any unexpected issues, don’t hesitate to call MM Garage Door Repair Utah. Our experienced technicians have the expertise and equipment to safely and efficiently replace your garage door springs.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has provided you with a better understanding of how to replace garage door springs. Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you’re in the Utah area and need professional garage door service, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help keep your garage door operating smoothly and safely for years to come. Ready to leave the heavy lifting to us? Give MM Garage Door Repair Utah a call at 801-418-9217 or visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com for a free quote. Let’s get your garage door back in tip-top shape, so you can get back to enjoying your weekend!