Take This Garage Door Spring Quiz

How much do you know about garage door torsion springs? Here is a quiz along the same lines as tests used when new hires are being trained--for review and education, not academics. This is not exhaustive; it is simply a gathering of some thoughts and considerations that will assist the reader in the field of garage doors and the springs that help lift them.

1. Which of the following is NOT a primary characteristic of garage door springs?

a) wire size b) wire weight c) internal diameter d) wind

2. Which of the following is NOT determined from the primary spring characteristics?

a) spring cycle life b) torque c) degree of play

3. What are the names of the cones that are attached to springs? (note any that apply)

a) torque cones b) stationary cones c) winding cones

4. How many turns on the springs need to remain when the door is fully opened?

a) none b) one c) two

5. What happens to the springs when the door rises?

a) the springs wind b) the springs unwind c) it depends

6. Which factors determine the choice of springs for a particular garage door?

a) door weight b) door height c) track radius d) cycle requirements e) all of the above

7. What is the usual diameter of the shaft on which the springs are mounted?

a) 1'' b) 2" c) 1 1/2"

8. Which of the following is a benefit of a 15'' track radius as opposed to a 12'' track radius?

a) a 15'' lifts more weight b) a 15'' opens to the full 7' height c) a 15'' allows the door to operate more smoothly d) all of the above

Now not all of these questions/answers are admittedly rocket science. But they should be good review for background. Other story pages are online, and they can help as well.

And now the answers:

1. b. Length is the missing element; wire weight can be stricken 2. c. Degree of play 3. b. and c. 4. b. no turns is bad, two is not wound enough 5. b. unwind 6. d. all are good 7. a. 1" 8. d. all are good again

In a later article, these considerations will be discussed. Here's to your safety...and your success.