Garage door springs are essential for smoothly opening and closing the garage door. Over time, these springs can wear out, break, or lose their tension, making it necessary to replace them. Garage door springs come in two types: torsion springs and extension springs. While replacing them requires caution and some mechanical skill, it’s a manageable task if you follow the right steps. This guide covers how to safely replace both types of springs on a garage door.
Step 1: Safety First
Before beginning, ensure your safety. Replacing garage door springs can be hazardous because of the tension involved, so it’s essential to have protective eyewear and gloves. Also, make sure the garage door is completely closed. Unplug any automatic garage door opener to avoid unexpected movements.
Step 2: Identify Your Spring Type
There are two main types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: Located above the garage door, these springs run parallel to the door and twist to store energy. Torsion springs are common in heavier garage doors.
- Extension Springs: Located on both sides of the door, these springs stretch along the horizontal tracks and extend to generate the force needed to open the door.
Knowing which type of spring you have is important, as the replacement process and required tools differ for each.
Step 3: Gather Tools and Materials
You’ll need the following tools:
- Winding bars (for torsion springs)
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket wrench
- C-clamp
- Ladder
- Replacement springs
Make sure your replacement springs match the specifications of the old springs in terms of length, diameter, and strength.
Step 4: Replace Torsion Springs
Replacing torsion springs is more complex and dangerous than replacing extension springs, so extra caution is needed.
- Release the Tension: Place a winding bar into the winding cone of the broken spring and carefully turn it to release tension. Be cautious, as the spring is under high tension.
- Loosen the Set Screws: Use a wrench to loosen the set screws on the winding cone.
- Remove the Old Spring: Slide the old spring off the torsion bar and discard it.
- Install the New Spring: Slide the new spring onto the torsion bar. Tighten the set screws with the wrench.
- Wind the New Spring: Insert the winding bars and turn the spring to wind it to the specified tension. The required number of turns should be based on the spring manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure and Test: Tighten all bolts, remove the winding bars, and test the door by manually opening and closing it a few times.
Step 5: Replace Extension Springs
Replacing extension springs is generally easier and less risky than torsion springs.
- Release the Tension: Open the garage door fully to release tension on the springs, then clamp the door in place.
- Remove the Old Spring: Disconnect the spring from the track hanger and pulley, then remove it.
- Install the New Spring: Attach the new extension spring to the track hanger and pulley system.
- Test the Door: Remove any clamps and carefully open and close the door a few times to ensure it’s operating smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Replacing garage door springs requires attention to detail and safety precautions. If you’re not confident in your ability to handle the task, it’s advisable to hire a professional. Always ensure that the door operates smoothly and without strain after the replacement, as any issues could indicate an incorrect installation or improper tension.