Before You Begin
This guide is intended for garage doors that do not have properly functioning torsion springs or when the original spring specifications are unknown. Use this guide if you're replacing missing springs, converting a spring system, or you're unsure which torsion springs your garage door requires.
If your garage door already has torsion springs that operated correctly before one or both springs broke, you can measure your existing springs to identify the size you need.
For doors with existing springs that previously worked properly, follow our measuring guide instead.
How to Measure Existing Torsion Springs
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How to Gather Your Garage Door Information
To help us recommend the correct torsion springs for your garage door, please provide the information listed below. Accurate measurements are essential for proper spring selection and safe door operation.
Important: If your garage door is difficult to lift, falls rapidly, or has broken springs, use caution when obtaining measurements. Do not loosen or remove any torsion spring components.
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1. Measure Garage Doors Width
Measure the overall width of the door from the outside edge of one vertical track opening to the outside edge of the opposite side.
- Record the width in feet and inches.
- Common widths are 8', 10' or 16' wide.
2. Measure Garage Doors Height
Measure from the bottom to the top of the door.
- Record the height in feet and inches.
- Common heights are 7', 8', and 10' tall.
3. Determine Door Weight
An accurate door weight is one of the most important factors when selecting torsion springs.
Method A – Door Has No Functional Springs (Preferred)
- Disconnect the garage door opener.
- Ensure all spring tension has been safely removed or that no springs are installed.
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Place a scale under the center of the door.
- Ensure that the scale is level and on a flat surface. (Tip: If scale is not flat utilize books, or wood to level the scale flat.)
- Carefully lower the door onto the scale.
- Record the total weight shown.
Note: If a single scale does not read high enough, you may utilize two scale (One on each corner of the door.) Gather the weight, the add the numbers up.
Method B – Door Is Difficult to Weigh
If you cannot safely weigh the door, we recommend contacting the manufacturer of the door with the doors information which may be found on the sticker.
Do not attempt to weigh a door while spring tension is still supporting the door, as this will produce an inaccurate weight.
4. Measure Track Radius
The track radius is the curved section where the vertical track transitions into the horizontal track.
To measure the radius:
- Locate the curved track section above the door.
- Measure the radius of the curved track as shown in the photo.
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Common residential track radii are:
- 12"
- 15"
- Low Head-Room
5. Identify the Cable Drum
The cable drum is mounted at each end of the torsion shaft above the door.
Please provide:
- The manufacturer and model number stamped on the drum, if visible.
- If no identification marking can be found: Provide us with the diameter of the drums.
Common residential Standard-Lift Drums Include:
D400-96, D400-8, 400-123, 400-144, ETC.
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5. Identify the Type of Lift
This guide is intended for Standard lift. If you have high lift, please mention within the comments of the form.
Garage doors can vary depending on type of lift.
Types of lift include Standard Lift, High-Lift, Vertical Lift.
The most common type of lift for most residential garage door is the Standard-Lift
(Example: Standard Lift Door)
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Information to Submit in Form Above
Please provide the following:
✓ Door Width
✓ Door Height
✓ Door Weight
✓ Track Radius
✓ Cable Drum Information
Providing complete and accurate information will help ensure the correct torsion spring recommendation for your garage door.
Need Help Finding the Correct Spring?
If your garage door specifications are not listed in the chart, or if you are unsure about your measurements, our team can help.