Your Guide to Garage Door Extension Springs

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about garage door extension springs! Whether you're looking to replace, adjust, balance, or measure them, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

Overview

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Garage door extension springs play a crucial role in the functioning of your garage door. They are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, making it easier to open and close. However, like any part of your home, they can wear out over time and may require some attention to ensure your door operates smoothly.

How to Replace Garage Door Extension Springs

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If your door seems heavy, opens or closes unevenly, or won't open at all, it might be time to replace the extension springs. Here's a step-by-step guide on how you can do this safely:

1. First, ensure you have the right replacement springs. Springs should be selected based on the weight of the door, so it's crucial to get this right.
2. Open your garage door completely. Secure it in place with locking pliers or a C-clamp on the track, just beneath the bottom roller.
3. Disconnect the safety cable and remove the springs from the track hanger.
4. Replace the springs, reattach the safety cable, and remove the C-clamp or pliers.
5. Lastly, test your door. It should open and close smoothly, with minimal effort.

How to Adjust Garage Door Extension Springs and Cables

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Over time, your garage door may start to open or close unevenly, or it might seem heavier than usual. This often means the springs and cables need adjustment. Here's how:

1. Start with the door fully open and secured. Then, disconnect the safety cable from the spring.
2. Next, loosen the spring or tighten it by turning the adjustment screw on the spring pulley and block.
3. Reconnect the safety cable and test the door. Adjust as needed until the door opens and closes smoothly.

How to Balance/Level Garage Door with Extension Springs

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Balance is key for a well-functioning garage door. Here's how you can ensure your garage door is perfectly balanced:

1. Disconnect the opener by pulling the release handle. You should be able to move the door up and down manually.
2. Lift the door halfway up. If it doesn't stay put or falls, you have a balance issue.
3. Adjust the extension spring on the side where the door is heavier. You can do this by tightening or loosening the spring as needed.
4. Keep testing and adjusting until your door stays halfway open on its own.

How to Measure Garage Door Extension Springs

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Measuring your garage door extension springs is a simple but critical task. Here's the process:

1. First, determine the height of your door.
2. Next measure the weight of your door. Use a bathroom scale and release the tension on the spring to weigh. Make sure there is no spring tension on the door (cables should be disconnected or slack on both sides).
3. Check the color code of your old spring (if you can't do this, then you have to know your door weight). 
   Blue - 40lbs, 140lbs, 240lbs
   Red - 50lbs, 150lbs, 250lbs
   Brown - 60lbs, 160lbs, 260lbs
   Orange - 70lbs, 170lbs, 270lbs
   Gold - 80lbs, 180lbs, 280lbs
   Light Blue - 90lbs, 190lbs, 290lbs
   Tan - 100lbs, 200lbs, 300lbs
   White - 110lbs, 210lbs, 310lbs
   Green - 120lbs, 220lbs, 320lbs
   Yellow - 130lbs, 230lbs, 330lbs
4. Pick the type of ends you want to replace your existing springs with. We only carry the double looped ends because these are universally the best option and you can replace any end type with double looped.

How to Replace Garage Door Extension Spring Cable

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The cable in your garage door extension spring system is equally as important as the springs themselves. Here's how you can replace it:

1. Start with the door in the closed position. Unplug the opener and disconnect it from the door.
2. Loosen the extension spring to relieve tension and remove the safety cable.
3. Disconnect the old cable from the bottom bracket and pulley system.
4. Attach the new cable, threading it through the pulley and spring loop.
5. Reattach the safety cable, making sure there's enough tension in the spring.

Conclusion

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Keeping your garage door extension springs in good shape is key to ensuring the smooth operation of your garage door. With this guide, you should now have a better understanding of how to replace, adjust, balance, and measure your garage door extension springs, as well as how to replace the spring cable. Remember, safety first! If you're ever in doubt, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional.