Garage Door Cable Broke On One Side

A garage door cable is a vital component that helps to lift and lower the door smoothly and safely. When a garage door cable breaks, it can cause the door to become stuck or even fall, posing a safety hazard. If you find that your garage door cable has broken on one side, it's important to take immediate action to repair it. Here are the steps you should follow to fix a broken garage door cable:

1. Safety First

Before you begin working on the garage door, make sure to take the following safety precautions:

Unplug the garage door opener from the power source.
Engage the door's manual lock to prevent it from moving.
Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any sharp edges.

2. Locate the Broken Cable

Once you have taken the necessary safety precautions, locate the broken cable. The cables are typically located on either side of the garage door and run from the bottom of the door to the top of the frame. If one of the cables is broken, you will see a frayed or snapped end.

3. Remove the Broken Cable

To remove the broken cable, you will need to detach it from the door and the drum. Start by loosening the bolts that hold the cable to the bottom bracket of the door. Once the bolts are loose, carefully lift the door slightly and slide the cable out of the bracket. Next, locate the drum at the top of the garage door frame and detach the cable from the drum. You may need to use a pair of pliers to remove the cotter pin or bolt that holds the cable in place.

4. Install the New Cable

With the broken cable removed, you can now install the new cable. Start by feeding the new cable through the bottom bracket of the door and attaching it to the drum. Make sure that the cable is properly seated in the grooves of the drum. Next, lift the door slightly and slide the cable into the bottom bracket. Tighten the bolts to secure the cable in place.

5. Adjust the Tension

Once the new cable is installed, you need to adjust the tension to ensure that the door opens and closes smoothly. To do this, locate the tension adjustment screws on the drum. Turn the screws clockwise to increase the tension or counterclockwise to decrease the tension. Adjust the screws until the door opens and closes smoothly without any jerking or binding.

6. Test the Door

Once you have adjusted the tension, test the door to make sure that it is working properly. Plug the garage door opener back into the power source and operate the door several times. The door should open and close smoothly and quietly. If you notice any problems, repeat the adjustment steps until the door is functioning properly.

7. Maintenance Tips

To prevent future garage door cable breaks, it's important to perform regular maintenance. Inspect the cables regularly for any signs of wear or damage. Lubricate the cables with a silicone-based lubricant to reduce friction and extend their lifespan. If you notice any fraying or damage to the cables, replace them immediately to avoid a potential safety hazard.