Steps on How to Fix Garage Door Spring

Picture this: you’re heading out for work, but the garage door won’t open. You try again, but it barely moves or feels too heavy. Annoyed, you take a look at the springs and see something’s wrong—they might be rusty, stretched, or even broken. 

Does this sound familiar? Garage door spring problems happen often, and fixing them fast can prevent bigger issues. Here, you might wonder how to fix garage door springs in this situation.

To put it simply, to fix a garage door spring, you should —-

• release its tension, 

• remove the broken spring, 

• replace it with a matching new one, 
• and adjust it carefully for balance.

In this guide, we’ll show you when you can fix it yourself and when to call a pro. We’ll explain the steps to repair both torsion and extension springs. Plus, we’ll share tips to keep your springs in good shape so your garage door works perfectly every time. 

Signs Your Garage Door Spring Needs Fixing

Here’s what to watch out for:

• Door Won’t Open or Close Properly: The door feels heavy or gets stuck midway.
• Loud Bang or Noise: A snapping sound may mean the spring has broken.
• Gap in the Spring: If you see a gap in the coil, it’s broken.
• Door Moves Unevenly: One side of the door moves higher than the other.
• Visible Rust or Wear on the Spring: Rust weakens the spring over time.

DIY vs. Professional Help

As per the question, “Can you fix a garage door spring by yourself?” check out the below table to get the right answer.

How to Fix Garage Door Springs

Now, let’s start with two types of garage door springs.

Steps to Fix Torsion Springs

Torsion springs are located above the garage door. They wind and unwind to lift the door.

Tools and Materials Needed

Tools:

• Winding bars (specific for garage door springs)
• Locking pliers or C-clamps
• Adjustable wrench
• Ratchet set
• Safety glasses
• Leather gloves
• Cordless drill
• Hammer

Materials:

• New torsion springs (double-life springs are recommended for longevity)
• Lift cables (preferably 7×19 for durability)
• Bottom brackets
• Garage door lubricant

Step 1: Secure the Garage Door

• Pull the emergency release cord to separate the door from the opener.
• Clamp locking pliers or C-clamps to the track just above a roller. This stops the door from moving unexpectedly.

**Important Safety Tip:

Never use screwdrivers or pliers to handle the springs. Always use proper winding bars.

Step 2: Loosen the Unbroken Spring

• Insert a winding bar into the bottom hole of the winding cone (attached to the spring). Hold it tightly to avoid sudden movements.
• Loosen the setscrews on the cone using a wrench. Be prepared for the spring’s tension to push back.

Step 3: Fully Unwind the Spring

• Insert a second winding bar into the next hole to hold the spring in place.
• Remove the first bar and carefully unwind the spring a quarter turn at a time. Then, leapfrog the bars to release all tension safely.

Step 4: Remove the Nuts, Bolts, and Old Spring

• Remove the two nuts and bolts holding the spring’s stationary cones to the center bracket.
• Slide the old spring off the torsion tube.

**Tip:

Before removing, measure the spring‘s length, diameter, and wire size for a proper replacement.

Step 5: Install the New Spring

• Slide the new spring onto the torsion tube with the stationary cone facing the center bracket.
• Check the “hand” of the spring:
• Right-hand wind: Spring endpoints up on the right.
• Left-hand wind: Spring endpoints up on the left.
• Make sure the spring matches the direction of the old one.

Step 6: Attach the Lift Cable and Brackets

• Replace bottom brackets if they’re rusted or damaged.
• Hook the lift cable loop onto the new bracket pin.
• Slide the lift cable stop through the slot on the cable drum and secure it.

Step 7: Tighten the Cable Drums

• Lock the torsion tube in place using pliers.
• Rotate each drum to wind the cables tightly into their grooves.
• Tighten the setscrews on the drums, ensuring equal tension on both sides.

Step 8: Wind the New Spring

• Insert a winding bar into the cone and wind the spring toward the ceiling. Turn the spring a quarter turn at a time.
• Use the supplier’s recommendations for the number of turns:
• 30 quarter turns for a 7-ft. door.
• 36 quarter turns for an 8-ft. door.

Step 9: Secure the Spring and Lubricate

• Tap the winding bar gently to stretch the spring by 1/4 inch.
• Tighten the setscrews on the spring until they’re snug, but don’t overtighten.
• Spray garage door lubricant on the spring and wipe off the excess.

Step 10: Test the Garage Door

• Remove all clamps and pliers.
• Lift the door manually about 3 feet and let go.
• If the door stays in place, the spring is properly adjusted.
• If the door falls, add a quarter turn to the spring and test again.
• If the door rises on its own, reduce the spring tension in small increments.

Final Step: Reconnect the Opener

• Once the door is balanced, reconnect the garage door opener and test it.

Simple Safety Tips for Fixing Torsion Springs

✅Don’t use screwdrivers or pliers. They’re not safe. Use winding bars made for this job.

✅Buy winding bars online for about $25 on average. Or make your own with 1/2-inch steel rods cut in half.

✅Put your ladder next to the spring, not in front. This keeps you safe if the spring snaps.

✅Unplug the garage door opener and then lock the door closed so it won’t move.

✅Protect your eyes with goggles and your hands with solid gloves.

✅Step off the ladder before testing the door. Never test it while standing on the ladder.

Steps to Fix Extension Springs

Extension springs stay on the sides of the door. They stretch to provide balance.

1. Buy New Springs

• Get a pair of replacement springs that match the size and type of your old springs.
• Springs are usually for 7-foot or 8-foot high doors.
• You can buy just the springs or a kit that includes cables, pulleys, and mounting brackets.
• If old parts like cables or pulleys look worn out, replace everything together.

2. Prepare the Garage Door

• Fully open the garage door.
• Use C-clamps to secure both door tracks so the door doesn’t move while you work.
• For extra safety, place a long brace under the door to block it.
• Unplug the garage door opener to stop it from turning on by accident.

3. Remove the Old Springs

1. Detach the Spring

• Unbolt the first extension spring from the back bracket on the door track (this is the end farthest from the door).

2. Disconnect Lift Cable

• Disconnect the lift cable where it attaches to the rail above the door.
• Remove the moveable pulley from the spring and unthread the loose cable from the pulley.

3. Remove Safety Cable

• Take off the safety cable that runs through the spring.
• Now, the spring is ready to remove.
• Repeat these steps for the second spring on the other side.

4. Install the New Springs

a. Attach the Safety Cable

• Thread the new safety cable through the spring.
• Attach the safety cable to the track brackets on both sides.

b. Connect the Lift Cable

• Attach one end of the new spring to its connection point on the door track.
• Attach the other end to the moveable pulley.
• Thread the cable properly:

1. Start from the bottom corner bracket on the door.
2. Loop it over the stationary pulley.
3. Thread it through the moveable pulley at the spring’s end.

• Finally, connect it back to the track bracket.
• Pull the cable slightly to stretch the spring by 1–2 inches (not more).
• Repeat these steps for the other spring.

5. Lubricate and Test the Door

• Spray the springs with garage door lubricant.
• Plug in the garage door opener.
• Remove the C-clamps and test the door to see if it opens and closes smoothly.
• If the door doesn’t work well, adjust the garage door opener’s lift power.

There are many common mistakes to avoid during Garage Door Spring Replacement. Read this informative blog to learn.

Garage Door Spring Problems: How to Prevent

Want to know how to fix garage door spring and garage door spring replacement cost? Read this blog to learn.

Wrapping Up

So, that’s all about how to fix garage door spring. Fixing garage door springs can be tricky, especially torsion springs. That’s why you should always prioritize safety and call a professional when needed. Regular maintenance can save you from expensive repairs down the line.

You can put your trust in us to replace your garage door springs in Dallas. Our expert team uses strong, high-quality springs and makes sure they are installed and repaired safely.

We’ll also help you pick the right springs, whether torsion or extension, for your garage door and always put your safety first.

FAQs

• How can I lift a garage door with a broken spring?

If your garage door spring breaks, it’s best to avoid manual lifting as it can be extremely dangerous. Instead, call a pro garage door repair service. 

They have the expertise and upgraded tools to safely handle the situation, which actually ensures your safety and the integrity of your garage door.

• Can I use WD-40 to lubricate my garage door springs?

No, don’t use WD-40 on garage door springs. It removes lubrication and can damage parts. Use synthetic oil or silicone spray instead.

• How often should I lubricate my garage door springs?

It’s recommended to lubricate your garage door springs at least twice a year, most preferably in the spring and fall.

• What is the average lifespan of a garage door spring?

The lifespan of a garage door spring fluctuates depending on factors like usage, weather conditions, and maintenance. On average, they last between 7 to 10 years.

• Can I use a regular screwdriver to wind a torsion spring?

No, you should never use a regular screwdriver to wind a torsion spring. Use a winding bar designed specifically for this purpose.

• What should I do if my garage door is off track after a spring repair?

If your garage door is off track, you may need to readjust the rollers or the track itself. It’s best to consult a professional for this task to know how to fix garage door spring.