Springs

How to Order the Correct Torquemaster Spring | Height & Weight Method

December 09, 2025 3 min read

How to Order the Correct Torquemaster Spring

When it comes to ordering a Torque Master spring, sometimes you can rely on the sticker that's on the tube. But let's be real – a lot of times that's not going to work. The sticker either doesn't have the correct information, doesn't exist anymore, or it's too dirty to read.

The surefire way to tell exactly what spring combination you need? Height and weight. Let me walk you through the process.

Step One: Measure Your Door Height

Start by measuring from the floor to the top of your door. Here's what you need to know about door height categories:

  • 7-foot door: Measures from floor to 7'6"
  • 8-foot door: Measures from 7'6" to 8'5"

This measurement is crucial because different door heights require different spring specifications. Don't just eyeball it – use a tape measure and get the exact measurement.

Step Two: Remove All Spring Tension

Before you can weigh your door, you need to make absolutely sure all spring tension is removed. This is critical for both safety and accuracy.

Here's how to check if tension is removed:

  • The spring inside the tube should feel loose and move freely
  • The tube should rotate freely without resistance
  • The cables should stay properly seated on the drums

If the tube doesn't rotate freely or the cables start coming off the drum assemblies when you try to rotate it, there's still tension on the springs. You need to release that tension before proceeding.

Step Three: Weigh Your Door

Now comes the critical part – getting an accurate weight measurement. You'll need a bathroom scale for this.

Here's the process:

With all tension removed from the springs (so the door is dead weight), pick the door up in the center. Position your scale directly under the center of the door. Carefully lower the door onto the scale, making sure it's centered properly.

The scale will give you the weight of your door, which is the second piece of information you need to order the correct springs.

Special Considerations for Wider Doors

If you have an 18-foot or 20-foot wide door, the process gets a bit trickier. On these wider doors, you may need to use a 2x4 under the door to prevent it from sagging and touching the ground on either side of the scale.

To do this: Set the 2x4 on top of the scale, pick the door up a little higher, and slide it underneath. For really big doors (18-20 feet), you'll probably need two people to lift the door high enough to get that scale positioned properly.

Why This Method Works Every Time

Using height and weight measurements is the most reliable way to order Torque Master springs because it eliminates guesswork. You're working with actual specifications rather than trying to decipher a faded sticker or making assumptions based on door size alone.

Different doors of the same size can weigh significantly different amounts depending on:

  • Insulation type and thickness
  • Door material (steel gauge, wood, etc.)
  • Panel design and construction
  • Window installations

The Bottom Line

This is the best way to make sure you're getting the right combination of springs every time you order them. Take the time to measure height accurately and weigh your door properly, and you'll avoid the frustration of ordering the wrong springs.

Got questions about measuring your door or need help determining the right spring combination? That's exactly the kind of stuff we love helping people figure out.

👉 Shop Torque Master springs here: Browse Torque Master Springs

FAQs

Can I just use the sticker on the tube to order springs?

Sometimes, but often the sticker is missing, damaged, dirty, or has incorrect information. Height and weight measurements are more reliable.

How do I know if all spring tension is removed?

The spring should feel loose and move freely inside the tube. The tube should rotate freely, and cables should stay properly seated on the drums.

Do I need special equipment to weigh my door?

A standard bathroom scale works perfectly. For wider doors (18-20 feet), you may need a 2x4 and a second person to help lift.

Why do doors of the same size need different springs?

Door weight varies based on insulation, material, panel design, and window installations. Two 7-foot doors can have very different weights requiring different springs.

Where should I position the scale when weighing the door?

Center the scale directly under the middle of your door. Make sure the door is balanced and centered on the scale for an accurate reading.


Also in Garage Door Parts - DIY Handbook

Garage Door Quieting Kit
How to Install a Garage Door Quieting Kit: Complete Guide

December 09, 2025 4 min read

We've found that replacing the majority of the hinges and installing the rest of the kit does a pretty good job of silencing the door without needing to deal with that bottom roller. If you really feel it needs to be changed, we have a separate process for that, but it's not necessary for most installations.

Read More
Torque Master Spring Installation Made Easy 6 Simple Steps
Torque Master Spring Installation Made Easy: 6 Simple Steps

October 19, 2025 4 min read

Installing Torque Master springs might seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools and step-by-step guidance, it's a manageable DIY project.

Read More
Why Do Garage Doors Need Torsion Springs Expert Explains
Why Do Garage Doors Need Torsion Springs? Expert Explains

October 08, 2025 3 min read

Think of your garage door springs like the counterweight in an old elevator. Without them, your door would be incredibly difficult to lift manually, and your garage door opener would burn out trying to handle all that weight on its own.

Read More