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Your garage door springs have a lot to do behind the scenes. They balance the door’s weight and ensure its smooth operation. But we know every component comes with its limited lifespan. The same holds for the high-tension steel in your garage door springs. Eventually, the spring’s functionality decreases, making you wonder how to replace garage door springs. Here comes the blog post to show you the way.
Fail Alert: Signs Your Garage Door Springs Need Help
- A heavy garage door requiring more force for the lifting mechanism is a common sign of failing springs.
- Excess strain on your garage door opener implies the need for garage door spring repair or replacement.
- If one of the garage door springs breaks, a loud gunshot-like sound would be obvious. It also implies the aging of the other spring, demanding the replacement of both springs.
Knowing How to Replace Garage Door Springs: A Detailed Breakdown
Torsion Spring Replacement Steps
Safety First Approach-
Pay attention to the safety needs before doing anything. These measures include locking your garage door and disconnecting the door opener. Then, use C-clamps to secure your garage door’s tracks. That prevents any unfortunate opening circumstances. Finally, ensure safe accessibility by using a reliable stepladder.
Spring Unloading Process-
Next, start unloading the spring by using a proper winding bar. Let go of the tension by putting and tightening the screws. Allow those old springs to slide down the winding bar and use pliers to secure it.
Old Spring Removal-
The third step involves the use of wrenches to disconnect torsion springs from their center bracket. Use pliers to secure the winding bar and start disconnecting the cable from the garage door bracket. Take out that old spring after loosening those drum setscrews.
New Spring Installation-
The installation phase implies sliding those new springs on the bar bolt and letting them reach the center bracket. Secure cables in the drums after reconnecting them to their brackets. Finally, avoid the chances of cable slack by tightening those drum setscrews.
Loading Torsion Springs-
Begin loading the springs by following the manufacturer’s guidelines. Rely on two winding bars to twist the torsion spring upwards. Then, allow a slight spring extension by tapping the winding bar using a hammer. And avoid over-tightening when tightening those setscrews.
The Last Few Steps-
The finishing move includes the use of a garage door spray for spring lubrication. The next three moves are removing the clamps, reconnecting the garage door opener, and checking how the door operates. Make necessary adjustments to spring tension if the garage door fails to close or open completely.
Extension Spring Replacement Process
Choosing the Proper Springs-
Aim for springs that can properly fit the height of your garage door. You may have to replace brackets, cables, and pulleys if you notice wear and tear.
Safety Consideration-
Start by securing the tracks after fully opening your garage door using C-clamps. Disconnect the opener to prevent the possibility of unintentional activation.
Old Spring Removal-
The spring removal process begins with the one farthest from the garage door. After unbolting the spring from the bracket, unplug the lift cable and remove the pulley.
Setting Up the New Springs-
Installation starts with the safety cable. Start threading it through your new extension spring and hook it to the brackets. Following a loop pattern, start connecting the lift cable to the track bracket and spring end. While attaching the cable, aim to exert a little tension for stretching the extension spring. Follow the same process for the other side.
Final Move-
Finally, use a high-quality spray for lubricating the springs. Then, shift your focus toward reconnecting the opener and removing the clamps. Test the operation of your garage door and make adjustments to the lift power if necessary.
Help Wanted, Expert Needed: Time to Call Professionals
Professional technicians understand and follow the proper order of replacing garage door springs. These technicians ensure safe and effective replacement, saving you time and money in the long run. So, professional garage door service is the way to go if you desire a hassle-free installation.
