Garage door torsion springs are a critical component of your garage door system, providing the necessary tension to lift and lower the heavy door. Over time, these springs can wear out or break, leading to a malfunctioning garage door. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process on how to measure and replace garage door torsion springs to ensure your door operates smoothly. This article is brought to you by Mountain View Doors, your trusted partner for all garage door needs.
How Do I Know What Garage Door Torsion Spring I Need?
Choosing the correct garage door torsion springs involves accurate measurements and understanding the specifications of your current springs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you determine the right torsion spring for your garage door:
Step 1: Measure the Inner Diameter
The inner diameter (ID) of the torsion spring is crucial for ensuring compatibility with your garage door. Measure the inner diameter or look for markings on the spring indicating the ID.
Step 2: Determine the Spring Wind
Garage door torsion springs are either right-hand wound or left-hand wound. Right-hand wound springs coil clockwise, while left-hand wound springs coil counterclockwise. To determine the wind of your spring, look at the winding cone or observe the installation position relative to the anchor bracket.
Step 3: Measure the Wire Size
To find the wire size, count 20 coils of the spring and measure their length. Use a torsion spring wire size chart to translate this measurement into the wire size.
Step 4: Measure the Spring Length
Measure the overall length of the unwound spring, including any broken torsion spring pieces. Add these lengths together and round up to the nearest whole number.
Garage Door Torsion Spring Chart
| Inner Diameter (inches) | Wire Size (inches) | Spring Length (inches) |
| 1.75 | 0.225 | 24 |
| 2.0 | 0.250 | 30 |
| 2.25 | 0.262 | 32 |
What is the Purpose of a Torsion Spring on a Garage Door?
Garage door torsion springs store mechanical energy to assist in lifting and lowering the garage door. They counterbalance the weight of the garage door, making it easier to open manually or with a garage door opener. The torsion springs wind up and unwind as the door opens and closes, respectively, ensuring smooth and controlled movement.
What Do the Colors Mean on Garage Door Torsion Springs?
The color coding on garage door torsion springs indicates the wire size, making it easier to identify the right spring during replacement. Each color represents a specific wire size, helping technicians and homeowners select the correct spring for their garage door.
Color Code Chart
| Color | Wire Size (inches) |
| Red | 0.225 |
| Green | 0.250 |
| Yellow | 0.262 |
Do Garage Doors Have 1 or 2 Torsion Springs?
Garage doors can have either one spring or two torsion springs, depending on the door’s size and weight. Single-spring systems are typically found on smaller, lighter doors, while larger, heavier doors often require two springs for balanced operation and increased lifespan.
Types of Garage Door Springs
There are several types of garage door springs, each serving a specific purpose:
- Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door, these springs provide balance by winding and unwinding.
- Extension Springs: Located on either side of the door, these springs extend and contract to assist in opening and closing.
- TorqueMaster Springs: Encased in a tube, these springs offer a cleaner appearance and added safety features.
How to Replace Garage Door Torsion Springs
Replacing garage door torsion springs can be dangerous if not done correctly. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and successful replacement:
Tools and Parts Required:
- Vice grips
- Two 3/8″ wrenches
- Two 9/16″ wrenches
- Torsion spring winding bars
- Replacement springs
- Tape measure
- Step ladder
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Step 1: Release Tension on the Old Springs
Using a winding bar, turn the spring in the opposite direction of the winding cone until the tension is fully released.
Step 2: Remove the Old Springs
Loosen the bolts attaching the springs to the anchor bracket with two 9/16″ wrenches. Slide the springs to each side of the shaft and remove them.
Step 3: Remove Torsion Spring Drums and Unhook Cables
Loosen the set bolts on the torsion spring cable drums and unhook the cables. Slide the drums off the torsion bar and remove the old springs.
Step 4: Install the New Torsion Springs
Slide the new springs onto the shaft, ensuring they are on the correct sides (right-wound on the left, left-wound on the right).
Step 5: Reset Drums and Cables
Reattach the torsion spring drums and hook the cables back into place. Ensure the cables are taut and even.
Step 6: Attach New Springs to Anchor Bracket
Secure the new springs to the anchor bracket using the mounting bolts and tighten them with two 9/16″ wrenches.
Step 7: Wind the New Springs
Wind the new springs by turning the shaft in the winding direction. Use the winding bars to achieve the correct number of 1/4 turns for your door height.
Step 8: Secure the Set Screws
Once the springs are wound, tighten the set screws to hold the springs in place securely.
Step 9: Test the Garage Door
Open and close your garage door several times to ensure it operates smoothly and the springs are correctly installed.
For professional garage door torsion spring replacement and maintenance, contact Mountain View Doors. Our expert technicians are ready to help you with all your garage door needs. Call us today at (720) 802-4984 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
Ensure your garage door operates smoothly and safely with the right torsion springs and expert installation from Mountain View Doors. Don’t wait until it’s too late—contact us now!
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to measure, purchase, and replace garage door springs or torsion springs with confidence. If you need assistance, our trained team offers reliable garage door repair services in Lakewood, Colorado along with the surrounding locations. Our professionals will ensure your garage door functions flawlessly.