How to measure torsion springs     Accurate measurement of your spring or springs is extremely important. Exact measurements are critical. Torsion springs must be measured in the unwound position.  Torsion springs are rated in IPPT, inch pounds per turn. IPPT is the amount of torque a spring will exert with each wind of the spring. Each measurement directly affects IPPT, therefore each measurement must be accurate. If your door has more than one torsion spring, we recommend replacing all springs at the same time. CAUTION: Repairing a garage door is a dangerous task. Garage door springs are under extreme tension and require appropriate safety precautions. Realize and understand the risks before undertaking any repair. Your health and safety is the #1 concern. No amount of financial savings is worth jeopardizing your health. Failure to understand/follow the recommendations below could result in property damage, personal injury or death. While all efforts are made to provide accurate information and guidance, it is impossible to predict all repair circumstances. Accordingly, the user agrees that use of this website; products and information contained herein are at your own risk. In no event shall youdoit Door Repair be liable for any property damage, personal injury/death, or any other loss or damage that may result from your use of the information and products provided on this site. All information contained within this site is provided “as-is” without warranty expressed or implied. User assumes all responsibility/risk for use of information and products purchased. Cables, track, rollers, door sections and all other components of your garage door system contain many sharp edges, burrs and pinch points. It is essential that you wear gloves, preferably leather, as you are inspecting and servicing your garage door. Do not attempt any garage door related repair unless: 1) You utilize the proper tools and safety equipment. Safety glasses and gloves must be worn at all times. Work boots are recommended. Loose fitting clothing and jewelry should NOT be worn during any repair. 2) You must possess a reasonable amount of mechanical aptitude and experience. 3) You are physically able to complete the task (climbing ladders, using wrenches and installing springs require a reasonable amount of physical strength, agility and ability). 4) You are able to completely read, precisely follow/understand the instructions. If you have any doubts about your ability to perform the work safely, we recommend you contact a door professional to complete your repair.     TOOLS NEEDED: Ladder Tape Measure Caliper Micrometer Gloves Safety Glasses

Step 1 - Spring Length Measure the entire length of the spring. This measurement is to include all coils of the spring. If your spring is broken, measure both pieces of the spring in their entirety. If the spring is deformed to the point that an accurate length cannot be determined, count the total number of coils of the UNWOUND spring. Multiply wire diameter by total coils and this is the length.   Step 2 - Inside Diameter Inside Diameter or I.D. is measured from the end of the spring.  I.D. is measurement between the spring coils.  This measurement can be taken with a tape measure or a caliper.  On a residential door this measurement will typically be 1-3/4", 2", 2-1/4" or 2-5/8".  Note: the spring I.D. may also be stamped on the spring fitting.  Example: 175=1-3/4", 200=2", or 263=2-5/8".      Step 3 - Wire Diameter This is the measurement of the thickness of one coil of the spring. There are several ways to measure wire diameter.  Caliper, micrometer, tape measure and wire gauge. Caliper or Micrometer - Place the caliper or micrometer on one coil of the spring. This measurement, expressed in a decimal, is the wire diameter. Tape Measure - When using a tape measure to measure wire size you count a specific number of coils and convert that measurement to a decimal. Use our chart and count 10, 20, 30 or 40 coils. It is a good practice to count and measure at least two of these groups of coils. IE: count 20 coils, record this measurement then count 30 coils and compare both measurements to our wire chart below.   Step 4 - Determine Right or Left Hand Wound Compare your spring to the images below and determine right or left hand wind.    RIGHT HAND WOUND     LEFT HAND WOUND