Torsion springs mount on a metal shaft above the garage door and twist to store energy. That energy is what lifts the door. Here’s what installing one actually involves.
Step 1: Secure the door
Before touching anything, the door gets locked in place with clamps or a locking pliers setup. This keeps it from dropping unexpectedly once the old spring is released.
Step 2: Release tension from the old spring
This is the dangerous part, and why this isn’t a DIY job. Winding bars are used to slowly release the stored tension in the spring, a quarter turn at a time. Rushing this step, or using the wrong tools, is how people get seriously hurt.
Step 3: Remove the old spring
Once tension is fully released, the spring comes off the shaft along with the cable drums.
Step 4: Match the new spring to the door
Wire size, coil diameter, and spring length all need to match your door’s specific weight. A spring rated for the wrong weight either won’t lift the door properly or wears out fast.
Step 5: Install and wind the new spring
The new spring goes on the shaft, and winding bars are used again, this time to add the correct amount of tension. Most residential doors need around 7 to 9 full turns, but the exact number depends on the door and spring.
Step 6: Balance test
A properly balanced door should stay in place when opened halfway and lifted by hand. If it drifts up or falls down, tension needs adjusting.
Why this takes a trained technician
The winding step alone is responsible for most garage door spring injuries nationally. Wrong tools, rushed technique, or an unsecured door are the common thread. This is worth paying for.
If you need this done in Indianapolis, local technicians typically complete it in under an hour.