BFT High Friction Door or Insufficient Motor Torque

Garage door opener runs but door moves very slowly or struggles, especially in cold weather.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dry or corroded rollers and hinges, Thick or hardened grease in tracks, Weak springs not counterbalancing door weight, Undersized BFT operator for door size

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Do not attempt to adjust torsion springs yourself; they are under high tension.

  • Check manual operation: Disengage the BFT opener and move the door by hand. It should move smoothly with moderate effort.
  • Lubricate hardware: Apply a silicone or lithium-based spray to rollers, hinges, and pivot points. Wipe off excess.
  • Clean tracks: Remove dirt and old grease from tracks; do not over-grease them.
  • Spring inspection: Visually inspect torsion or extension springs for gaps, rust, or deformation. If the door is heavy to lift, have a professional adjust or replace springs.
  • Verify operator sizing: Compare door size and weight with the BFT model's rated capacity. Upgrade the operator if undersized.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Door Springs and Rollers (Door Hardware)
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