What should I use on the springs and rollers of an electric garage door opener? Will any of these serve?
- LPS F-104° degreaser (http://www.lpslabs.com/product_pg/degrea…)
- KEL pure silicon spray (http://www.kelloggsprofessionalproducts….)
- LPS 1 greaseless lubricant (http://www.lpslabs.com/product_pg/lubric…)
- LPS Force 842 dry molybdenum spray (http://www.lpslabs.com/product_pg/lubric…)
- Panef white lithium grease
- WD-40
- 3-in-1 oil
Janet
Replies
I don't think the springs need any lubrication. It may seem like it might quiet them down a bit, but I don't think the mess is worth it.
For the rollers, just about any grease will do since they don't see high speeds or heat. I used white spray grease just because it was easy to apply. Grease is better than oil or silicone.
For the chain, I used motorcyle chain lube, again because it was easy to apply. I don't think I've re-greased anything in at least 5 years.
Whatever's handy, and as little as possible. (Too much lube attracts dirt.) Our GDO (Sears) is 34 years old and I last lubed the chain probably 15 years ago. I've replaced 2-3 parts on it, but nothing that wore out from lack of lube.
Did have several of the door rollers wear out, but they're hard to lube and seem to have a limited life anyway. (And easy to replace --- IF you can find the replacements.) And went through several cable rollers before getting the door converted from extension springs to torsion a couple of years ago.
Dunno how many springs we've been through (there are two on each side). At least 4 before the torsion conversion, maybe 6. And several cables.
Of all the parts I've replaced, only the door rollers maybe would have been delayed (but not averted) by a bit more lube.
janet
I use the spray lithium on the bearings of the rollers-slopping it on the wheel itself or the track does nothing but goop it up.
WD 40
Accordng to my garage door guy, spray WD40 on every door hinge and roller twice a year. This is to prevent moisture from accumulating and then freezing, which destroys the drive gear on the opener. I also live about a mile from Lake Michicigan.