Installing a new garage door

[KennyG]

As I recall there are two ways to set the drums. All the doors I have installed say to use vice grips or something to clamp the shaft in place. Then hand wind one drum and tighten the screws. Then hand tighten the other drum. After that wind the spring and then release the shaft.

The alternative (which I haven't used) is to not clamp the shaft in place but use a single wind of the shaft to keep tension on the first drum. I like clamping the shaft.

 

[Oaktree]

Curiously, does anyone still make garage doors that use the big mutha springs on each side of the track? Seems like it would be easier to install than the torsion style.

Also, has anyone noticed how few garage doors these days have either usable windows or handles to open/close with? I need to replace the doors on my garage one of these days and don't have (or really want) a motorized opener, but the extra light from good-sized windows sure would be nice.

 

[KennyG]

Garage doors come standard with extension springs. You have to pay extra for torsion springs. It may seem like extension springs are easier but once you've had torsion springs you will be glad you spent the extra.

The foot steps/ handles come with the door. I don't install them on my doors. Windows are an option on almost every door.