[Shop-talk] Garage door openers

Thu Nov 20 12:15:19 MST 2025

Mark,
Recently did two on my own - not a big deal. Things to consider:

  *
There are two main companies Chamberlain and Genie (at least at the big box) similar features but compare for what you want - last I checked they do not play together at all - suggest looking for one with battery backup
  *
Get a opener with HP rating to match your door - they push more HP than most people need - google for size door/weight and HP needed
  *
Do you want it to be "smart"? - most of mine are but you get ads in the chamberlain app - informs me of changes and can set schedule to auto close late at night if you forget - hard not to get a smart one now
  *
If you go side lift (liftmaster/chamberlain) make sure your spring can match up to it - if you have Dalton torquemaster tubes (something like that) it is not direct plug and play
  *
I think there are 3 methods of lift: belt, screw and chain (but getting harder to find) - belt will be quieter (I am eventually migrating screw to belt on all 4)
  *
The warning about the safety rope and pulling from outside still applies (google if you have not seen it)

It is an easy task (depending if you can reuse sensor wiring in the walls). Easier with a second set of hands but can be done solo no sweat
--John

________________________________
From: Shop-talk <shop-talk-bounces at autox.team.net> on behalf of Jim Juhas <james.f.juhas at snet.net>
Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2025 12:06 PM
To: Pat Horne <patintexas at icloud.com>
Cc: shop-talk at autox.team.net <shop-talk at autox.team.net>
Subject: Re: [Shop-talk] Garage door openers

I have always installed my own openers, including chain drive, screw drive and most recently, shaft drive. I found it not difficult at all, although the shaft drive required a little more setup. (I was not aware the shaft drive could not be used on non-segmented doors, thinking the shaft doesn’t know the difference). Shaft drive units (Liftmaster) are more expensive than the others, my choice made on a new installation because I wanted to keep the ceiling clear. I should mention that way too many years ago, I occasionally installed openers when working for the local Sears Service Department when I was 18.

Sent from my iPhone

> On Nov 19, 2025, at 6:52 PM, Pat Horne <patintexas at icloud.com> wrote:
>
> Depends on what type of door you have. If the opener is 40 years old, I’ll guess that your door is a one piece door w/tension springs. Being that old, I’d look closely @ the door too. If it could stand replacing, now is the time to do it. A lot of door companies give a discount if you do both @ the same time.
>
> There are several types of openers, screw drive, belt drive & shaft drive. Belt & screw are similar with belt drive quieter. Either will operate most standard height doors. Shaft drive will only work on segmented doors & mount on the wall above the door. They can be used on taller doors.
>
> I’ve always used Chamberlain or Lift Master, they cost a bit extra but I’ve never had a problem with them.
>
> I need to go now but will answer your other questions hopefully tomorrow.
>
> Peace, Pat
>
> Pat Horne
> We support Habitat for Humanity
>
>
> On Nov 19, 2025, at 5:40 PM, Mark Bradakis <mark at bradakis.com> wrote:
>
> It has been nearly 40 years.  It may be time to replace our garage door opener.  So what are some good units to consider?  How easy are they for a home owner to install?  Can I do it myself, or call in a professional?
>
> mjb.
>
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