Garage door torsion spring winding bars

[techman]

I found an old pair of tire irons were the perfect size

paul

 

[Gary Fowler]

I always just used two large phillips head screw drivers since I already had them in my tool box. They are long enough to twist the spring easily and wont bend.

 

[toddwulf]

I borrowed a set from the guy I bought the springs from. Crazy but out here in California they can't sell you the springs to DIY unless your a licensed contractor. 29 1/4 turns is about right. Be careful. That's alot of tension.

 

[westcliffe01]

I repaired a spring loaded door recently where the spring had broken. One of the things I found was that one had to stretch the spring axially when tensioning it since it expanded in length when you lower the door and the tension on the spring is increased. I used a ratchet strap pulling against one of the attachment points for the vertical guides and only needed to stretch it about 1-2". It does not sound like much, but since the coils otherwise touch each other, it can generate enormous force if it is constrained.

I also suggest you experiment with different amount of tension compared to what the manufacturer recommends. I was able to back off the tension quite a bit and it reduced the load on the door opener substantially. It runs much more quietly now compared to the way it was originally installed. If you can comfortably raise or lower the door by hand, then it is going to work slick with your garage door opener. All one needs is to mostly counteract the weight of the door when it is vertical.

 

[milkman]

Long extensions for 3/8" drive sockets works real well for winding the spring on 10' door.

 

[ray66v]

A large overhead door company, should have winding bars in stock.

Last set I bought, was only around $10.

Remember, to try not to bunch the springs tightly together, when you are done winding them. Before you tighten the screws, if you try, you will find you can pull the cone slightly away. This spreads the spring just a little, giving it more room for it to twist, without binding.

You also want to set them "hot", which means about 1/4 turn tighter than neutral. Within 6 months, the spring will wear in, and the door will be balanced.

I also suggest anyone installing a new door, or springs, upgrade to a larger size springs. It's only a few bucks more, and they will last longer.

 

[kenmac]

I bought new springs last yr off E Bay.. The springs came with adjusting rods.. I have used 1/2'' rebar in the past

 

[KennyG]

Ace Hardware sells the winding bars here.

 

[bigtiller]

Don't forget to oil the tension springs at least once a year, some recommend twice a year. It lets them do their thing easier and they will last longer.

 

[buckeyefarmer]

National Hardware V7677 1/2" diameter x 16" Length in Plain Steel - Screen Door Hardware - Amazon.com