Convert Chain Drive To Belt Drive Garage Door Opener
Garage door openers are essential to our daily lives, especially when we are in a rush to get in or out of our garages. However, these devices can be noisy and cause vibrations that can disturb the occupants of the house. One solution to this problem is to convert a chain drive garage door opener to a belt drive garage door opener. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to convert your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive.
What is a Chain Drive Garage Door Opener?
A chain drive garage door opener is a device that uses a chain to operate the garage door. The chain is attached to a trolley that moves along a rail, which opens and closes the garage door. This type of garage door opener is common in many households because it is affordable and reliable. However, it can be noisy and vibrate the garage door as it operates.
What is a Belt Drive Garage Door Opener?
A belt drive garage door opener is similar to a chain drive garage door opener, except that it uses a belt instead of a chain. The belt is made of rubber or polyurethane and is attached to a trolley that moves along a rail, opening and closing the garage door. This type of garage door opener is quieter and produces less vibration compared to a chain drive garage door opener. However, it is more expensive than a chain drive garage door opener.
Why Convert Chain Drive to Belt Drive Garage Door Opener?
Converting your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive has several benefits:
- Less Noise: Belt drive garage door openers are much quieter compared to chain drive garage door openers, which can be an advantage if you often use your garage door at night or early in the morning.
- Less Vibration: Chain drive garage door openers can cause vibrations that can disturb the occupants of the house. Belt drive garage door openers produce less vibration and are more stable.
- Longer Lifespan: Belt drive garage door openers are more durable compared to chain drive garage door openers because they have fewer moving parts that can wear out over time.
Steps to Convert Chain Drive to Belt Drive Garage Door Opener:
Before you start converting your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive, make sure you have the following tools:
- Socket wrench set
- Adjustable wrench
- Flathead screwdriver
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- New belt drive garage door opener kit
Now, follow these steps to convert your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive:
Step 1: Turn off the Power
Turn off the power to your garage door opener by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or turning off the circuit breaker that controls the garage door opener.
Step 2: Remove the Old Chain Drive Garage Door Opener
Remove the old chain drive garage door opener by loosening the bolts that hold it in place with a socket wrench set. Disconnect the chain from the trolley and remove the chain drive garage door opener from the rail.
Step 3: Install the New Belt Drive Garage Door Opener
Install the new belt drive garage door opener by attaching it to the same location as the old chain drive garage door opener. Attach the belt to the trolley and thread it through the rail. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to make sure you install it correctly.
Step 4: Adjust the Belt Tension
Adjust the belt tension by using an adjustable wrench to tighten or loosen the tension nut on the belt drive garage door opener. The belt tension should be tight enough to run smoothly but not too tight that it puts stress on the belt.
Step 5: Test the Garage Door Opener
Finally, test your new belt drive garage door opener by plugging it back in or turning the circuit breaker back on. Open and close the garage door to make sure it runs smoothly without any issues.
Conclusion
Converting your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive is a simple process that can be completed in a few hours. It can make a significant difference in the noise level and vibration produced by your garage door opener. A belt drive garage door opener is also more durable and reliable compared to a chain drive garage door opener. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with the information you need to convert your garage door opener from chain drive to belt drive.