How To Replace Cable On Garage Door

How to Replace Cable on Garage Door

Garage doors are an essential part of many homes, providing convenient access to vehicles and other belongings. When the cable on a garage door breaks, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. Fortunately, replacing the cable is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the cable on a garage door:

Materials and Tools Needed:

New garage door cable
Cable crimps
Crimping tool
Wrench
Ladder
Safety glasses

Safety Precautions:

Before beginning any work on your garage door, it is important to take the following safety precautions:

Disconnect the garage door opener from the power source.
Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
Use a sturdy ladder to reach the garage door springs.
Never attempt to work on the garage door while it is in motion.

Step 1: Prepare the Garage Door

To prepare the garage door for cable replacement, first disconnect the door from the opener by pulling the release cord. Then, manually lift the door to the fully open position and secure it with a prop rod.

Step 2: Remove the Old Cable

Locate the old cable on the garage door. It will be attached to the spring bracket on one end and the drum on the other end. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the cable in place. Once the nuts are loose, remove the old cable from the spring bracket and the drum.

Step 3: Install the New Cable

Take the new cable and thread it through the spring bracket. Secure the cable to the bracket using the nuts that you removed in the previous step. Next, thread the other end of the cable through the drum on the garage door opener. Secure the cable to the drum using the nuts that came with the new cable.

Step 4: Adjust the Tension

Once the new cable is installed, it is important to adjust the tension to ensure that the garage door operates smoothly. To do this, turn the tension adjustment nut on the spring bracket clockwise to tighten the cable. Turn the nut counterclockwise to loosen the cable. Adjust the tension until the garage door opens and closes smoothly without any jerking or binding.

Step 5: Connect the Garage Door Opener

Once the cable is adjusted, reconnect the garage door opener to the power source. Pull the release cord to disengage the door from the prop rod. The garage door should now open and close automatically using the opener.

Step 6: Inspect the Door

After replacing the cable, it is important to inspect the garage door to ensure that it is operating safely and correctly. Check that the door opens and closes smoothly without any binding or jerking. Also, check that the door stops automatically when it reaches the fully open and fully closed positions.

Replacing the cable on a garage door is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can ensure that your garage door is operating safely and efficiently.