How to Set a Garage Door Limit Switch to Start
The limit settings will not be properly adjusted for your door and door opening when you first install your garage opener. You might find the motor prematurely reverses on the way up or down, or notice the door reaches the ground, pauses, then heads back upward, if the limit dials need adjusting. If your opener is properly installed, the hard work is over; adjusting the limit settings is quick and easy. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Test your garage opener; the results will help you quickly make effective adjustments. Make a note of how the door behaves -- whether it reverses on the way up or down -- and locate the door remote for the opener.
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2
Stand on a ladder beneath the motor head to access the limit switches. Usually located on the side of the motor, the dials often have an up or a down arrow icon printed above them. Do not confuse the limit dials with the force dials (see Tips).
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3
Turn the dial marked with a down arrow counterclockwise -- with a screwdriver if necessary -- if the door does not reach the ground; turn it clockwise if the door reverses after touching the floor. Spin the dial marked with an up arrow clockwise if the door stops before it is fully open. Each complete turn of the dial represents about 5 inches of door travel added or removed.
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4
Repeat Step 1 again using the remote; notice how the door behaves based on your changes and make any necessary adjustments. You might have to make several changes before the door movement is properly configured.
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Tips & Warnings
The force dials, also located on the motor head, play an important role in the opening and closing of the door. Too little force applied to the up or down action causes the door to reverse under little resistance -- too much force and the door will push through your hands if you try to stop if on the way up or down. You may need to adjust the force settings after setting the limits.
