Garage Door Parts
ⵙ What is each parts function?
ⵙ What is the DIY level of repair?
ⵙ How can you tell if the part is not working?
#1 Torsion Springs
Torsion springs are most commonly mounted horizontally above the opening of your garage door. When the door is pulled down, cables attached to the bottom corners force the springs to wind up, in turn energizing the system. If your garage door is hard to lift with one hand, you most likely have a broken torsion spring.
DIY Level Expert
**Spring replacements can be very dangerous. Please contact a licensed professional.
- GDU Expert Tip
A spring that’s too strong will cause cables to jump off the drum. One that’s too weak can cause the cables to unwind.
#2 Torsion Spring Tube
The metal rod which runs through the torsion spring.
DIY Level Expert
**Spring replacements can be very dangerous. Please contact a licensed professional.
#3 Cable Drums
Found on the ends of the torsion shaft, cable drums help the garage door remain balanced and level as cables wrap around the drums.
DIY Level Expert
**Spring replacements can be very dangerous. Please contact a licensed professional.
- GDU Expert Tip
A sign that you need new cable drums can be lack of movement or smooth movement in your garage door. Check for rust, corrosion, or fraying.
#4 Rollers
Garage door rollers help the door glide smoothly while in operation. The two most common types of rollers are Nylon & Steel.
DIY Level Easy
- GDU Expert Tip
Garage Door Utah’s preferred roller is the 10 ball Nylon. It does not require as much maintenance as steel rollers.
#5 Hinges
Hinges are what hold each panel section together.
DIY Level Easy
- GDU Expert Tip
If you use the wrong hinges, you can create several problems.
#6 Horizontal Track
The horizontal track contains a curved end called the radius. In the closed position, the garage doors rest in the vertical track.
DIY Level Moderate
#7 Vertical Track
The vertical track is mounted to the jambs with brackets on each side of the garage door opening.
DIY Level Expert
#8 Sensor Eyes
Two sensors about 6 inches off the ground. One of the sensors directs a beam toward the other; if an object interrupts the beam, the door will be prevented from closing.
DIY Level Easy
- GDU Expert Tip
If you use your transmitter to shut the garage door; and the door will not go down, or lights begin flashing on your motor, it is very likely that your sensor eyes are not aligned properly.
#9 Strut
Provide support for the entire garage door. A single or multiple strut(s) can be added for additional support. Great for high wind areas and heavy garage doors.
DIY Level Moderate
#10 Trolley Motor Rail
Guides the traveler when the door is in operation.
DIY Level Expert
- GDU Expert Tip
The life expectancy of a motor and it’s components is 10-15 years.
#11 Garage Motor/Opener
Garage Door Motors have a life span of about 5-15 years depending on how much they are used, and how well the motor has been taken care of.
DIY Level Medium
- GDU Expert Tip
If the garage door won’t open or close, and the lights are flashing on the motor, the sensor eyes are out of alignment. It is a simple fix by adjusting the eyes to point straight at each other.