Common Issue with Garage Door Openers
Q: The chain or belt on my Liftmaster/Craftsman opener is sagging, but still works. Should I do something?
A: This is a common problem, especially with the do-it-yourself home install openers that you will find at retail hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. First, someone who has never installed a garage door opener may tend to tighten the chain or belt way too tight during installation.
Understanding the Root Cause
When this happens, it puts an extra amount of pressure on the chain sprocket or the belt sprocket. After about 3 to 5 years of this overload of pressure, the stem that the sprocket is attached to can shear off, similar to how a metal lathe operates. This leads to the sprocket moving forward, causing the belt or chain to sag over time.
Avoiding Further Damage
The worst thing you could do if you have this problem is to tighten the chain or belt even more. This action only accelerates the deterioration of the sprocket. Inexperienced garage door technicians may inadvertently do this due to their lack of proper installation knowledge. If you encounter this issue, it’s likely that you will need to replace the gear and sprocket kit inside your garage door opener.
Importance of Professional Installation
This maintenance issue is quite common with all garage door openers, whether chain or belt-driven. When a technician installs the new gear and sprocket, ensure they do not tighten it too much. Ideally, the gear and sprocket should last anywhere from 10 to 15 years without any issues when installed properly.
DIY Fix: Proceed with Caution
If you decide to find the gear and sprocket kit online and attempt to fix the problem yourself, be sure you are mechanically inclined and knowledgeable about appliance repairs. Improper installation can lead to a host of additional problems, so proceed with caution.
Cost Considerations for Repairs
As a point of reference, I usually charge about $179 plus tax to fix this problem on a garage door opener. Keep in mind that belt drive gear and sprocket kits can cost a little more, so it’s prudent to be aware of that when considering your options.