Garage Door Bearing Replacement
Have you been hearing odd sounds while opening and closing your garage door, but you are unable to identify the cause of the noise? If you’ve thoroughly inspected your garage door hardware but can’t easily find the issue, then you may have worn or damaged end bearing plates. The garage door bearing plates are installed along the length of the torsion spring tube as either supported or unsupported pieces, depending on the type of garage door you have.
The end bearing plates become worn or damaged when they’re not properly maintained and lubricated. Over time, the bearings will pop and grind causing the balls to lose their shape until they eventually freeze and prevent proper garage door movement.
Replacing Garage Door End Bearings
With the proper tools and careful attention, homeowners can attempt to replace their garage door’s end bearing plates. However, for the most effective and safe garage door repairs, it’s best for homeowners to seek help from a professional. Professionals have the necessary equipment and expertise to save you time on your repair needs and ensure every repair is completed properly for lasting dependability, efficiency and performance.
To replace your garage door bearings, simply follow these steps:
- Open the Garage Door: Using the garage door opener, raise the door — the machine will help keep your door elevated and secure during repairs. It also places your torsion spring in its most relaxed position in case it’s damaged and becomes unfastened.
- Unplug the Opener: Disconnect your opener from its power source to prevent any garage door movement while you’re replacing the end bearings and making adjustments.
- Remove the Old Bearing Plate: Unfasten the lag screws that attach the bottom of the bearing plate to the header, and then remove the nuts at the bottom of the bearing plate. Lower the end of the shaft and bearing plate, and then raise the end of the shaft and rotate the plate 90 degrees.
- Replace the Bearing Plate: Remove the old plate and replace it with the new bearing plate — lift the shaft and rotate the new bearing plate until it is beyond the horizontal garage door track. Attach the nuts to the bottom of the new bearing plate, but don’t tighten them.
- Inspect Drums and Cables: Check your garage door’s drums for any damage and ensure the cables are still tightly wound around the drum. Make any repairs or adjustments to the drums and cables at this time if you notice any wear.
- Secure the Plate and Lubricate It: At this time, fasten the top of the bearing plate, keeping the piece properly aligned, then tighten the lower nuts and bolts. Lubricate both sides of your bearing plates to ensure proper functionality and prevent damage.
- Make Any Final Adjustments: Disengage your garage door from the opener, then lower the door manually to check that everything is attached and fastened correctly. If everything appears functional, reattach the garage door to the opener and test the operations of the door with the garage door opener.
Call Markham Garage Doors Today for Quality Garage Door Repairs
If you’re trapped inside your garage or stranded outside of it and need responsive, reliable garage door repair services, don’t hesitate to reach out to the knowledgeable, friendly professionals at Markham Garage Doors. We provide garage door repairs large or small for homeowners throughout Markham, Ontario.
To request a free garage door service estimate complete our online contact form or call us today at 905-472-9178 to schedule an appointment.