Garage Door Extension Springs Repair and Replacement
Part 2 - Installing New Springs
"Be certain there is a safety cable running through both extension springs."
"In With The New" Extension Spring
After removing broken garage door extension springs it's time to install new ones. Remember to replace the stationary sheave, lift cable and
safety cable if necessary. CAUTION: Completely replace ONLY ONE of the springs at a time before moving on to the next one. Go back to Step 1 if you still need to remove the damaged spring. Go to Step 3 if you want to know the cost and life expectancy of a garage door spring.
Step 4
Install the new spring and any other parts you may be replacing at the same time. You can use the other
extension spring (the one that is not broken) as an example to ensure the new one is installed correctly. The lift cable must travel the same route
from the attachment point over, under and around the sheaves, etc., as its mate on the other side. Be sure the new spring is only stretched about an
inch with the garage door open all the way.
Step 5
After replacing ALL of the affected parts on one side of the garage door, you may remove the C-clamp, locking pliers,
etc., from under the door and move to the other garage door spring. As a reminder, replacing both garage door extension springs at the same time is
a very good idea, especially considering the relatively low cost and the value of your time. CAUTION: "At the same time" means "on the same day." You must completely replace ONLY ONE of the springs at a time before moving on to the next one.
Step 6
When you are finished replacing both extension springs, you may remove the C-clamp, locking pliers, etc.,
holding the door open and lower the garage door. Be sure there are no obstructions under the door BEFORE doing this, ESPECIALLY PEOPLE.
While you are lowering the garage door, carefully observe the new parts to be certain everything has been installed and is operating correctly.
Here are some things to consider:
- Watch the attachment points where the extension springs attach at the back of the door rail. Be sure the springs are solidly attached.
- Watch the sheaves (pulleys) that are attached to the end of the extension springs. Be sure they do not touch the stationary sheaves mounted
to the garage door rail just above the garage door opening. If this happens, you likely stretched the new garage door spring too far
when you were installing it.
Step 7
If the door seems too heavy to lift, adjust the springs. Lock the door open again with C-clamps or locking
pliers and stretch the extension springs another one to two inches with the garage door in its fully open position. Don’t stretch the springs so
far that the sheave on the spring and the stationary sheave touch when you retest the door.
Step 8
Be certain there is a safety cable running through both garage door extension springs. The safety cable attaches to
the ceiling, wall or rail at either end of the extension springs to keep them from injuring someone if they ever break. If you do not have safety
cables installed, PLEASE INSTALL THEM. If an extension spring breaks under tension and there is not a safety cable in place to contain the broken
spring, serious injury can occur. You can find more information on safety cables here.
Go to Step 1 of Garage Door Extension Springs - Repair and Replacement
Go to Step 3 of Garage Door Extension Springs - Cost and Life Expectancy
Return from Garage Door Extension Springs
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