How To Change Garage Door Cable

Garage door cables are an important part of the garage door system. These cables lift and lower the door and help to keep a consistent tension. If a cable breaks, the garage door will not be able to open or close properly. In this article, we will provide step-by-step instructions on how to change a garage door cable.

It is important to note that this is a potentially dangerous task and should only be attempted by those with the proper skills and knowledge. If you are not confident in your ability to safely change a garage door cable, it is best to contact a professional.

Tools and Materials Needed:

New garage door cable
Garage door cable drum
Socket wrench
Pliers
Screwdriver
Ladder
Safety glasses

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Safety First: Before you begin, make sure to put on your safety glasses. This will protect your eyes from any flying debris.
Disconnect the Garage Door Opener: The first step is to disconnect the garage door opener from the power source. This will prevent the door from opening or closing while you are working on it.
Locate the Broken Cable: Once the power is disconnected, you can locate the broken cable. The cable will be attached to the garage door spring and the cable drum. The broken cable will be the one that is hanging loose.
Remove the Broken Cable: Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts that are holding the broken cable in place. Once the bolts are loose, you can remove the cable from the spring and the cable drum.
Install the New Cable: Take the new cable and thread it through the spring and the cable drum. Make sure that the cable is properly seated in the grooves of the drum. Once the cable is in place, tighten the bolts.
Reconnect the Garage Door Opener: Once the new cable is installed, you can reconnect the garage door opener to the power source. Test the garage door to make sure that it is opening and closing properly.

Tips:

It is important to use the correct size cable for your garage door. The size of the cable will be stamped on the old cable.
If you are not sure how to change a garage door cable, it is best to contact a professional.
Regularly inspect your garage door cables for any signs of wear or damage.
Replace the cables every 5-7 years to prevent them from breaking.