Garage door torsion springs are crucial components in a garage door system. They are responsible for balancing the door's weight, making it easier to open and close. However, installing garage door torsion springs can be risky and difficult work.
For this, you should have proper knowledge about the tools and methods and how to handle them with precautions. We are with this blog with a step-by-step guide to help you install torsion springs smoothly and securely.
What Are Torsion Springs?
Torsion springs are heavy-duty, tightly wound metal coils that are mounted horizontally above the garage door on a steel shaft. These springs are designed to store mechanical energy when twisted. As the garage door opens or closes, the torsion springs wind up or unwind, generating the necessary force to lift or lower the door.
Torsion springs are crucial for the safe and efficient operation of a garage door. They bear the full weight of the door while reducing the strain on the opener and allowing for smooth, controlled movement.
Now let's move on to installing the torsion springs.
Part 1: Measure Your Garage Door Torsion Springs
Before purchasing new torsion springs, it's essential to measure your current ones accurately. Correct measurements will make sure your new springs function properly with your garage door.
Safety First: If either of your current springs is still under tension, you must release the tension before measuring to prevent accidents. Refer to instructional videos or professional guides on safely releasing spring tension using winding bars.
Step 1: Measure the Inner Diameter (ID)
Use a tape measure to determine the inner diameter of the spring. Sometimes, the inner diameter is marked on the spring itself. Look for any labels or inscriptions indicating the size.
Step 2: Determine the Spring Wind Direction
Understanding the wind direction is crucial because garage doors use both right-hand and left-hand wound springs.
If the spring coils clockwise from the winding cone, it's a right-hand wound spring.
If it coils counterclockwise, it's a left-hand wound spring.
A left-hand wound spring is typically installed on the right side of the anchor bracket (when facing the door from inside). A right-hand wound spring is installed on the left side.
Step 3: Measure the Wire Size
Count 20 coils of the spring wire. Measure the length of these 20 coils with a measuring tape. Use a wire size chart (available online or at hardware stores) to convert this measurement into the correct wire size.
Step 4: Measure the Spring Length
Measure the overall length of the unwound spring, including both ends and any broken pieces. Add these lengths together. Round up to the nearest whole number. This is the length you will need when ordering new springs.
With all these measurements; inner diameter, wind direction, wire size, and length, you can purchase the correct replacement torsion springs for your garage door.
Part 2: Replacing Your Garage Door Torsion Springs
Once you have the correct replacement springs, follow these steps to install them safely.
Warning: Replacing torsion springs can be dangerous due to their high tension. If you are not confident in performing these steps, consider hiring a professional.
Tools and Materials Needed:
You will need the following tools and materials to install the torsion springs safely:
- Torsion springs (make sure to purchase the correct size and type for your door)
- Winding bars (two bars of equal length and diameter)
- Wrench set (including 3/8" and 9'16" Wrenches)
- Vice grips
- Safety glasses and gloves
- Ladder
- Tape measure
- Marker
Step 1: Release Tension from Old Springs
- Insert a winding bar into the winding cone of the spring.
- Turn the spring in the opposite direction of its wind to release tension.
- Carefully lower the winding bar until it rests on the garage door's top bar.
- Repeat this process until all tension is released from the spring.
Step 2: Remove Old Springs from Anchor Bracket
- Use the two 9/16-inch wrenches to loosen and remove the bolts attaching the springs to the anchor bracket.
- Loosen the set screws on the winding cones.
- Slide the springs towards the ends of the shaft to remove them.
Step 3: Remove Cable Drums and Unhook Cables
- Loosen the set screws on the cable drums.
- Unhook the cables from the drum slots.
- Slide the drums off the torsion bar by pushing the bar towards the opposite side and removing the drum.
- Repeat this process on the other side.
Step 4: Remove Old Springs from Torsion Bar
- Starting from one side, slide the old spring off the end of the torsion bar.
- Push the torsion bar back through the wall bracket bearing.
- Repeat on the other side to remove both springs completely.
Step 5: Install New Springs
- Slide the new springs onto the torsion bar in the same positions as the old ones were removed. The right-hand wound spring goes on the left side of the anchor bracket, and the left-hand wound spring goes on the right side.
- Reinstall the cable drums onto the torsion bar with the set screws facing the inside of the garage.
Step 6: Reattach Drums and Cables
- Align the torsion bar correctly within the wall brackets.
- Place the cable back into the slot on the drum and wind it neatly until the cable is tight.
- Secure the set screws on the drum.
- Use a vice grip to lock the torsion bar in place to prevent movement.
- Repeat this process on the other side, ensuring both cables have equal tension.
Step 7: Attach Springs to Anchor Bracket
- Place any necessary bearings back into the anchor bracket.
- Align the spring anchor plugs with the holes on the anchor bracket.
- Insert and tighten the mounting bolts securely using the 9/16-inch wrenches.
Step 8: Wind the New Springs
Refer to your garage door's specifications for the exact number of turns required. As per the general guide, for every 3 inches of the door height, you need to add a 1/4 turn. For Example:
- 7-foot door: 28-quarter turns
- 7.5-foot door: 30-quarter turns
- 8-foot door: 32-quarter turns
- Insert a winding bar into the winding cone and push upward, turning the spring 1/4 turn at a time.
- Insert the second winding bar before removing the first to maintain control.
- Continue until you've reached the required number of turns.
- Tighten the set screws securely to hold the spring in place.
Step 9: Remove the Vice Grip and Test the Door (Final Steps):
- Remove the vice grip from the torsion bar.
- Slowly and carefully open and close the garage door manually to test the new springs.
- Ensure the door moves smoothly and stays open when lifted halfway.
- If the door doesn't operate correctly, adjust the spring tension accordingly.
Safety Tips
- Take help from others: Having a helper can make the process safer and more manageable.
- Use proper winding bars: Never substitute winding bars with other tools, they are specially designed for this task.
- Wear safety gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from any potential injuries.
SGD Springs: Garage Door Torsion Spring
Our high-quality torsion springs are designed to give your garage door the durability and performance it needs. These springs are available in both left and right-hand wound options with a minimum lifecycle of 12,000 uses.
They come pre-installed with winding and stationary cones for easy installation. The springs are also marked and color-coded for easy identification.
Visit SGD Springs to explore our selection of durable torsion springs and find the perfect fit for your garage door needs.
Conclusion
Installing garage door torsion springs requires careful attention to detail and safety precautions. Follow this step-by-step guide with the manufacturer’s instructions to make your garage door function properly and safely.
If you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the process, it’s best to consult a professional to avoid accidents or damage.