Do I need to replace track when installing new Garage Door?

[Joelk]

I need to replace a couple 9 x 7 garage doors. The existing doors are about 25 YO. The doors are deteriorated and need to be replaced, but the track seems to be in good condition and seems to be heavier gauge metal than the track that I see on most doors, especially newer doors. There is limited headroom and the doors already have a low headroom kit installed.

Do I need to remove the old track and install new?

Are there any specific places that I should inspect for wear/damage before deciding if the old track is OK to reuse?

 

[bwringer]

I'd take a close look at how well the old track is anchored -- sometimes things get wobbly over the years. And make sure it's not bent or damaged.

Other than that, go for it. The stuff doesn't really wear out unless something has gone very wrong.

 

[firebirdparts]

I never do if I am not planning to use the locks. It's okay if you just want to. There is no wear on them. Mine are 40 years old, used every single day.

 

[larry_g]

I need to replace a couple 9 x 7 garage doors. The existing doors are about 25 YO. The doors are deteriorated and need to be replaced, but the track seems to be in good condition and seems to be heavier gauge metal than the track that I see on most doors, especially newer doors. There is limited headroom and the doors already have a low headroom kit installed.

Do I need to remove the old track and install new?

Are there any specific places that I should inspect for wear/damage before deciding if the old track is OK to reuse?

I would think you might have to pay close attention to the hinges and rollers on the new door that they are compatible. Confirm that your tracks are not something 'non-standard'.

lg
no neat sig line

 

[Trey T]

It's quite simple...

if the track is straight for door conveyance, then reuse it. If it's not straight and/or it's aesthetically unpleasant, throw it away and get new ones.

The critical parts are the rollers, wires, springs, and drums.

 

[kbs2244]

I had a 7 x 16 replaced.
It was a simple 1 for 1

I wasn't home when they did the replacement.
The new door came with new tracks.
SWMBO had the guys replace the tracks.
New is better, right?

Except they are very much thinner metal and flex when the old ones were stiff.

But, what is done is done and not worth the argument.

The installer was happy with the extra hours billed and to put the heavier tracks in his to the scrapper pile.

 

[Hot Rod Grampa]

Door tracks can be re used but first measure the thickness of the door. Old and new. Some of the track brackets are welded to the vertical track and establish a certain distance from the jamb to the door. So if your old door is 1 3/4" and your new is 2" you may have a situation. Or if your old door is 2" and your new is only 1 3/8 you will have a gap to fill. Doors and tracks are sold as a system and while some tracks are universal and could be adjusted to fit, most professionals will replace the track. Less chance of call back.

 

[TOOLS4WORK]

Compare the hinges, did that once on my son garage door and the hinges had differant back spacing.
Yea i looked like a idiot