How to Perform Garage Door Cable Repair
If you have a garage door, then you know that its cables are essential to its function. This is because the door’s weight can weigh up to 500 pounds, so its ability to lift and lower itself depends heavily on the strength of the cable system. If the cable becomes detached or breaks, then you will find it difficult or even impossible to open and close the door.
If your garage door’s cable needs to be repaired, it is important that you repair the issue as soon as possible so that your door can function properly again. You can do this by following the steps outlined below:
Preventing Fraying or Kinks
Inspect your cables regularly for signs of fraying or kinking that may be causing them to sag or not work as well as they once did. If you notice fraying, you should replace the cable before it breaks.
Regularly inspecting your garage door’s cables can also help you identify if they are rusting or developing any other problems. Rust can cause the cables to deteriorate quicker, making them less effective in their job of lifting your garage door.
To prevent this, you should always make sure that the cables are free of rust and debris. Additionally, you should keep them free of lubricants that can attract dirt and other grime.
Rewinding or Reattaching Your Cables
When you are replacing a cable, it is important to take the time to reconnect and rewind it correctly. This will ensure that it will work as it should and that you won’t have any issues with your door in the future.
First, you need to remove the old garage door cable from the door. This is done by removing the bottom bracket that attaches the cable to the frame. Then, unscrew the bolt that holds it in place. Next, slide a flat-head screwdriver behind the cable loop to remove it.
You will then have to disconnect the old cable from the winding drum on either side of the garage door. Depending on your type of garage door, you will have one or two cables per side.
Torsion Springs
Most garage doors have torsion springs that are attached above the door, which makes it easier to open and close the door. Torsion springs are attached to a series of pulleys along each track that run up and down the vertical tracks of the garage door.
Rewinding a Broken Garage Door Cable
You need to remove the cable from its winding drum and loosen the bolts that hold it in place. This will allow you to remove the broken cable and reconnect it onto the winding drum.
Repeat the procedure on both sides of your garage door until you are satisfied with how the cable is working.
If you aren’t able to fix the cable yourself, you can call a professional to perform the task for you. They can diagnose the problem, remove the old cable, and install the new one.