Garage Door Spring Guide

When one torsion spring breaks, the second spring has usually gone through the same number of cycles. Replacing both springs helps restore balance and reduces the chance of another repair soon after.

One Broken Spring Usually Means Both Are Worn

Most two-spring torsion systems use springs that were installed at the same time and have lifted the same garage door for the same number of cycles.

If one spring breaks from normal wear, the other spring is often close to the end of its useful life too. Replacing only one spring can leave the door operating with uneven spring strength.

Why a Matched Pair Matters

Better Door Balance Two matched springs help share the lifting load evenly across the torsion shaft.
Less Repeat Downtime Replacing both reduces the chance that the second old spring breaks shortly after the first repair.
Smoother Operation A matched set can help the door move more evenly and reduce strain on related hardware.

What Happens If You Replace Only One?

01

The New Spring May Do More Work

A new torsion spring has full cycle life and proper lifting force. The remaining old spring may be weaker from years of use.

That can make the door feel uneven or place more strain on one side of the system.

02

The Second Spring May Break Soon

Since both springs typically cycle together, the unbroken spring may be close to failure. Replacing only the broken one can lead to another repair shortly after.

This is especially common when both springs were installed at the same time and have the same number of open-and-close cycles.
03

The Door May Not Stay Properly Balanced

Garage doors rely on spring balance. If one spring is new and the other is worn, the system may not lift evenly or hold balance as expected.

Poor balance can affect cables, drums, bearings, hinges, rollers, and the garage door opener.

Important Safety Note

Torsion springs are under heavy tension. Do not remove, loosen, or wind torsion springs without proper tools and experience.

If one spring breaks, avoid operating the garage door until the spring system is inspected and repaired.

When Should You Replace Both Springs?

Situation Recommended Action Reason
One torsion spring broke Replace both springs if the system uses a pair. The second spring likely has similar wear and cycle life.
Both springs were installed together Replace both as a matched set. They have worked through the same number of cycles.
One spring is new and one is old Inspect balance carefully. Uneven spring strength can affect door movement.
The door feels heavy or uneven Check spring sizing and system balance. The spring pair may not be properly matched.

Before Ordering Replacement Springs

If you are replacing both torsion springs, record the full specifications from the existing springs before ordering.

Specification What to Check
Wire size Measure 10 or 20 coils to confirm wire diameter.
Inside diameter Check cone marking or measure the inside opening.
Spring length Measure the coil body only, not the cones.
Wind direction Identify left-wind and right-wind correctly.
Quantity Order the correct matched pair for the door system.
If one spring is broken into pieces, measure each piece and add the lengths together to estimate the original spring length.
Need help choosing a matched pair?

Call Suplink Tech Corp Before You Order

If one spring broke and you are not sure whether to replace one or both, call us and we’ll help you confirm the correct spring pair and measurements.

Call +1 386-359-9755 →
Suplink Tech Corp torsion spring replacement support