These cables wind around a drum at the top of the garage door and are used in systems with torsion springs.
Extension Spring Cables: Found on doors with extension springs, these cables run along the sides of the door and garage door cable replacement connect to the bottom brackets.
When these cables wear out, they may fray, snap, or lose tension, making the door difficult to open and creating a safety hazard.
Signs That Garage Door Cables Need Replacement
Fraying or Visible Wear: If you notice strands of the cable unraveling or rust forming, it’s time for a replacement.
Slack or Loose Cables: If the cables appear loose or uneven, they may be close to breaking.
Difficulty in Door Operation: If the door struggles to open or close, worn cables could be the cause.
Garage Door Drops Quickly: A sudden or unbalanced drop can indicate a cable issue.
Door Stuck Halfway: If the door doesn’t open or close completely, broken cables might be preventing proper movement.
Safety Precautions Before You Begin
Before you attempt to replace your garage door cables, keep these safety measures in mind:
Disconnect the Garage Door Opener: This prevents accidental activation.
Release the Door from the Opener: Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the door from the motorized system.
Secure the Door in Place: Use clamps or locking pliers on the tracks to prevent the door from moving while you work.
Wear Safety Gear: Gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing can prevent injuries.
Use Proper Tools: Winding bars, a socket wrench, and replacement cables are essential.
Have a Second Person Help: An extra set of hands can improve safety and efficiency.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Garage Door Cables
Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
You will need:
Replacement garage door cables (ensure they match your door model)
Adjustable wrench
Socket wrench set
Locking pliers or C-clamps
Winding bars (for torsion spring doors)
Safety gloves and glasses
Step 2: Secure the Garage Door
Fully close the garage door.
Use C-clamps or locking pliers to secure the door to the tracks, preventing movement.
If your door has torsion springs, do not release the spring tension yet.
Step 3: Remove the Old Cable
Locate the bottom bracket where the cable attaches.
If working with extension springs, carefully remove the cable from the pulley system.
For torsion spring doors, use winding bars to hold the torsion spring in place before loosening the set screws on the cable drum.
Slowly unwind the cable and remove it from the drum or pulley.
Step 4: Install the New Cable
Thread the new cable through the pulley or drum, following the same path as the old cable.
Attach the cable to the bottom bracket.
If working with torsion springs, ensure the cable wraps evenly around the drum.