The torsion springs on a garage door help to move it up and down when opening and closing. They prevent the door from forcefully running into the floor when closing. They also help to keep the door balanced when open. Springs get damaged over time. One of the signs that this could happen is an unbalanced door. You don’t have to wait for the springs to snap before replacing them with new ones. When you notice any issues it may be time for a garage door torsion springs replacement. Reliable professionals like STIGarageDoor can come to your place and quickly fix an issue.
If you are into DIY here are a few steps to change the springs. Even if you have no prior experience, this guide offers the basic steps that anyone can follow. Remember safety first as you can injure yourself during the process.
Table of Contents
1. Grab your tools
The first thing to do is to grab the right tools. Having the proper tools will make work faster and more efficient. Some of the tools you’ll need include:
- A step ladder
- Wrench
- Winding bars
- Pliers
- Lubricant
- Rubber gloves
- Tape measure
You can find these at any convenience store in your city. Keep all the tools in one place so that you don’t move back and force when changing the springs. You can also rent tools and equipment from the professional service and under agreement.
2. Measure the torsion springs
Before you buy new Springs it is important to know the size. Otherwise, the door won’t work properly. Start by measuring the old torsion springs. Measure the following:
- Winding length
- Spring diameter
- Number of windings
- Size of wires
A single measurement is not enough. As you buy new springs use the measurements to get the right one. Spring sizes vary for different garage doors. All you need is a tape measure to know the size. For the diameter, a caliper is more precise. However, a tape measure will work fine.
When buying springs their size is based on the length of 20 coils and color. An example is 3 ⅞ Orange 0.192. It makes it easy for anyone to buy the right torsion springs.
3. Remove old springs
Always work with the door closed. It helps you prevent injury. Start by switching off the opener. That way the door won’t open as you remove and install springs. You can also use a ladder to have better access to the spring shaft. Further, you should:
- start unwinding the springs with the winding bar,
- attach it to the winding cone and ensure there is a tight fit,
- move the winding bar from side to side until the cone starts loosening up.
Making the winding bar with tape before starting helps you understand how much of the spring needs to be loosened. If should attach to the cone completely otherwise you won’t remove the springs. Once the bar is halfway through the cones, start removing the torsion springs. You will need to loosen the screws with a wrench to remove the springs.
4. Remove torsion hardware
You can now remove the cones that hold the springs in place. The cones secure the spring brackets. Simply turn the bolts to remove the cones. As you are removing the cones, make sure the bar doesn’t come out.
You can avoid this by securing the shaft in the bracket. This prevents injuries. Now remove the springs by moving them towards the cable drum. Remove the screws on the cable drum on both sides of the garage door.
5. Install the new springs
To put new springs start by pushing the drum from the bearing plate. Move the shaft from the left to the right or vice versa. Filing helps keep the shaft in place.
Check the bearing and lubricate it. This makes it easier for the springs to move. If the bearing is old, you can replace it at this stage. One of the cones should remain intact as you slide in the new torsion springs. Once you have done that, slide your opposite cone to keep the springs from sliding off.
6. Reinstall the hardware
Insert the shaft in the drum. Make sure it fits tightly. Move the drum until there is a correct fit. The shaft shouldn’t turn if it is tightly secured. Further steps are:
- tighten the screws just enough,
- make a ¼ turn and do not overtighten the shaft (it may damage them),
- insert the cable into the drum,
- bend the ends (the screws on the drum should be tight to keep the cable in place).
7. Test the garage door
When the hardware iI place a check to see if the springs are working well. You can switch the garage door open and try to open the door. If the springs are not placed well on the shaft, the door won’t be straight as it lifts. Check the springs, cables, and drums. Tighten some screws and try again.
You may have to restart the entire process if that’s the case. Alternatively, you can call a professional to check it out and replace the springs for you. Getting help from professionals will save you time and money. You can do research, ask friends or read testimonials online to find local experts who can help you fix the garage door torsion springs.
Final thoughts
Changing the springs of your garage door is important. It helps you prevent injuries and further damage. You can decide to choose the springs by yourself. All you need to do is follow the steps discussed above. Keep your tools near you to make it easier. Also, take the right measures to buy springs that will work for your garage door.
Remember to be extra cautious as you work. If you are unsure about changing the torsion springs by yourself, call up professionals. Experts can save you time and do the work for you. Working with professionals helps you avoid the chances of the door malfunctioning after a torsion spring replacement.
