[Shop-talk] De-coupling overhead door torsion spring

[John P. New]

Scott,

First, I would echo what others have said and watch several how-to videos. The site that I referred to when I did my springs is DDM Gararage Doors; they have a very helpful and extensive DIY section, https://diygaragedoor.com/diy-instructions/ that covers changing many types of springs and sizing them as well.

Second, when you get the rods that you are going to use to (de)tension the spring, you have to mark the rods so you have a visual cue as to when they have bottomed out in the holes of the winding cone. This very important, because if a rod isn't firmly in the winding cone it could come loose when under stress and you could lose control of the spring with all that entails. So, before you do anything, insert each rod into a winding cone hole; make sure that the hole is clean and free of debris. Make sure the rod is well and truly seated; usually a metal-to-metal thunk will let you know that. With the rod still in the hole, take a piece of tape (I used electrical) and wrap it once around the rod at the edge of the hole (see attached picture). When you have done this to both rods, compare the two: if they are not identical, take the tape off and do it again. To use the rods, EVERY time you insert one, you should look at the base of the rod and make sure that tape is snug against the winding cone hole.

So, watch the videos, take your time, keep your head and as much of your body to the side of the rods away from the spring, and you should be fine.

John P. New
London, Ontario, Canada


On Monday, October 14, 2019 11:39:15 PM EDT Scott Hall via Shop-talk wrote:
> Got a new insulated garage door for winter here. Need to remove the old 
> door.
> 
> 
> Torsion springs seem to be one of those things that drive emergency room 
> visits in real life, not just internet clickbait.
> 
> 
> Before I just do what Google says, I think I'd like to hear from the 
> real people on a subject like that. Can I somehow un-do the cable ends 
> from the door, or the cables from the springs and then remove the door 
> panels, or do I need to de-tension the torsion spring first?
> 
> 
> And if I need to de-tension it, what's the best method to avoid smashed 
> skulls or broken limbs?
> 
> 
> Thanks in advance.
> 
> 
> Scott
> 
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