Garage Door Technician how-to

How to Replace a Torsion Spring Safely

Springs store dangerous energy.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Springs store dangerous energy. In short: close; clamp; insert, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Close the door.

  2. Clamp the track.

  3. Insert winding bars fully.

  4. Unwind the old spring.

  5. Install the new spring.

  6. Wind to spec and test balance.

Safety reminders for garage door technicians

  • Use proper winding bars
  • Clamp tracks
  • Use ladders safely
  • Wear eye protection

Torsion spring · Extension spring · Winding bar · Cable drum · Roller · Track: see the full garage door technician glossary.

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