How To Replace Garage Door Cable

Garage door cables play a crucial role in the smooth operation of your garage door. They are responsible for counterbalancing the weight of the door, ensuring it opens and closes effortlessly. However, over time, these cables can become worn, frayed, or even break, leading to a malfunctioning garage door.

Replacing garage door cables is not a complex task, but it requires some basic tools, safety precautions, and attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Tools and Materials You'll Need:

New garage door cables
Replacement drums (if necessary)
Wrenches (typically 7/16-inch and 9/16-inch)
Socket wrench or ratchet
Pliers
Safety glasses
Work gloves
Step ladder

Safety Precautions:

Before you begin, ensure you take the following safety precautions:

Disconnect the garage door opener from the power source.
Wear safety glasses and work gloves.
Have a helper assist you, especially when removing and installing the heavy door.

Step 1: Remove the Old Cable

Locate the drums on either side of the garage door opening. The cables are wrapped around these drums and attached to the bottom brackets of the door.

Using pliers, detach the cable from the bottom bracket. Remove the cable from the drum by unwinding it. Repeat this process for both cables.

Step 2: Inspect the Drums (Optional)

Once the cables are removed, inspect the drums for any damage or wear. If the drums are severely damaged, you may need to replace them as well.

To remove the drum, use a socket wrench or ratchet to loosen the nuts holding it in place. Pull the drum out and replace it with a new one.

Step 3: Install the New Cable

Take the new cable and loop it around the drum. Ensure the cable is wrapped correctly, following the grooves on the drum.

Secure the cable to the bottom bracket of the door. Use pliers to tighten the bolts connecting the cable to the bracket.

Repeat this process for the other cable.

Step 4: Adjust the Cable Tension

Once the cables are installed, you need to adjust their tension. To do this:

Close the garage door manually.
Loosen the nuts on the cable drums slightly.
Lift the door about halfway up.
Tighten the nuts on the cable drums until the door stays balanced in this position.
Open and close the door a few times to ensure it operates smoothly.

Step 5: Reconnect the Garage Door Opener

Once the cable tension is adjusted, reconnect the garage door opener to the power source. Test the operation of the door to ensure it opens and closes properly.

Additional Tips:

Lubricate the cables and drums with a silicone-based spray to reduce friction and extend their lifespan.
Inspect your garage door cables regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
If you are not comfortable replacing garage door cables yourself, contact a professional garage door repair technician.