How to wind a double spring garage door?

Welcome to the MM Garage Door Repair Utah blog! As your trusted local garage door experts, we often get asked about garage door spring maintenance and repair. One of the more complex tasks homeowners sometimes attempt is winding a double spring garage door. While we always recommend professional assistance due to the inherent dangers involved, we understand the desire to understand the process. This post will guide you through the process, but please remember safety is paramount. 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 Double Spring Garage Door Systems

Before we dive into the winding process, it’s crucial to understand how a double spring system works. Most garage doors use torsion springs, which are mounted horizontally above the door opening. Double spring systems, as the name suggests, use two torsion springs. These springs work in tandem to counterbalance the weight of the garage door, making it easier to open and close. When the door is closed, the springs are wound, storing energy. As the door opens, the springs unwind, releasing that energy to assist in lifting the door. This system is designed for safety and ease of use, but it requires careful maintenance and repair.

Safety First: A Critical Warning

Working with garage door springs is extremely dangerous. These springs are under immense tension, and if mishandled, they can cause serious injury or even death. We strongly advise against attempting this repair yourself unless you have extensive experience and the proper tools. Always wear safety glasses and gloves. Never stand directly in the path of the winding bars or springs. If you are at all unsure, please call MM Garage Door Repair Utah at 801-418-9217. Your safety is our top priority.

Tools You’ll Need

If you decide to proceed, you’ll need the following tools:

• Two appropriately sized winding bars (usually ½ inch diameter, but check your spring size)
• A sturdy ladder
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves
• A marker or pen
• Vice grips (optional, but recommended)

Step-by-Step Guide to Winding Double Garage Door Springs

Here’s a detailed guide on how to wind double garage door springs. Remember to work slowly and carefully.

Step 1: Secure the Garage Door

Before you begin, ensure the garage door is completely closed. Clamp the door in place using vice grips on the track, just above the rollers. This prevents the door from accidentally opening while you’re working on the springs.

Step 2: Loosen the Set Screws

Locate the set screws on the winding cone of the spring you’re working on. Use a wrench to loosen these screws. Do not remove them completely, just loosen them enough to allow the winding bar to be inserted.

Step 3: Insert the First Winding Bar

Insert one of the winding bars into a hole in the winding cone. Make sure the bar is securely seated. Hold the winding bar firmly.

Step 4: Unwind the Old Spring (If Necessary)

If you are replacing a broken spring, you’ll need to unwind the remaining tension from the old spring. Using the winding bar, carefully unwind the spring one quarter turn at a time. Secure the spring with the second winding bar before removing the first. Repeat until the spring is fully unwound. Be extremely cautious during this step, as the spring can release suddenly.

Step 5: Winding the New Spring

Now, it’s time to wind the new spring. This is where the process becomes more complex. The number of turns required depends on the height of your garage door. A general rule of thumb is to use one turn for every foot of door height, plus an additional quarter turn. For example, a 7-foot door would require 7 and a quarter turns.

Insert one winding bar into the winding cone and hold it firmly. Rotate the winding bar upwards, winding the spring. Insert the second winding bar into the next available hole and hold it securely. Remove the first winding bar and re-insert it into the next available hole. Continue this process, alternating between the two winding bars, until you have reached the required number of turns.

Step 6: Secure the Spring

Once you have wound the spring to the correct number of turns, hold the winding bar firmly in place. Tighten the set screws on the winding cone securely. Make sure the screws are tightened evenly to prevent slippage.

Step 7: Repeat for the Second Spring

Repeat steps 2 through 6 for the second spring. It is crucial to wind both springs the same number of turns to ensure the door is properly balanced. Use a marker to keep track of the number of turns on each spring.

Step 8: Test the Door Balance

Carefully remove the vice grips from the track. Slowly lift the garage door a few feet. If the door stays in place, the springs are properly balanced. If the door rises or falls on its own, you may need to adjust the tension by adding or removing a quarter turn from one or both springs. Make small adjustments and retest until the door is properly balanced.

Tips for Success

• Take your time: Rushing can lead to mistakes and injuries.
• Keep track of your turns: Use a marker to note the number of turns on each spring.
• Ensure even tension: Both springs should have the same number of turns.
• Double-check your work: Before removing the vice grips, make sure all set screws are tight.

FAQs

Q: How do I know what size winding bars to use?

A: The size of the winding bars depends on the diameter of the torsion spring. Consult your garage door’s manual or contact a professional for assistance.

Q: What if the set screws are stripped?

A: Stripped set screws can be dangerous. Do not attempt to wind the spring with stripped screws. Call a professional immediately.

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

A: Lubricate your garage door springs at least twice a year with a silicone-based lubricant.

Final Solution

Successfully winding a double spring garage door requires precision, patience, and a thorough understanding of the system. If you follow these steps carefully and prioritize safety, you may be able to complete the task yourself. However, remember that the risks are significant. If you encounter any difficulties or feel uncomfortable at any point, please don’t hesitate to contact MM Garage Door Repair Utah.

Safety Note

Garage door springs are under extreme tension and can cause serious injury or death if mishandled. This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional assistance. Always prioritize safety and seek professional help when in doubt.

We hope this guide has been helpful. At MM Garage Door Repair Utah, we’re committed to providing top-quality service and expert advice. Don’t risk your safety or the integrity of your garage door. Let our experienced technicians handle your spring repairs and replacements. Call us today at 801-418-9217 for a free consultation. Or, visit our website at mmgaragedoorrepair.com to schedule an appointment. Don’t let a broken spring ruin your day – let us spring into action for you!