Wall-mount (jackshaft) garage door openers

A wall-mount opener, also called a jackshaft or side-mount opener, sits on the wall beside the door and turns the torsion spring shaft directly, so there is no rail on the ceiling at all. (source: Garaga) LiftMaster, Genie and Chamberlain all sell this style for homes. (source: LiftMaster) (source: Genie) (source: Chamberlain)

When it's the right fit

Garaga's opener guide lists the situations where a wall mount is the go-to choice: too little clearance between the top of the door and the ceiling for a rail, a cathedral ceiling, or a wish to keep the ceiling clear for overhead storage or a car lift. (source: Garaga) A garage with ductwork or a beam right above the door opening raises the same question.

Three things your garage must have

Garaga spells out the requirements plainly. (source: Garaga)

1. Torsion springs. A wall mount works only with a torsion spring system, because it drives the spring shaft. A door on extension springs (long springs running beside the horizontal tracks) has to be converted first. See torsion spring repair and extension spring repair.
2. Side clearance. A small amount of wall space beside the door, next to the end of the shaft.
3. Power. A nearby electrical outlet.

We check all three on a site visit before recommending one.

What current models can do

• LiftMaster's 98022 Premium wall mount lifts doors up to 850 lbs, includes battery backup, and needs no cable tension monitor, which LiftMaster says makes installation easier. It can also run up to sixteen 827LM remote work lights. (source: LiftMaster)
• Genie's wall mounts use a 24-volt DC motor and eliminate the traditional rail. (source: Genie)

Repair or replace

Because a jackshaft is tied to the spring shaft, many "opener" problems on these units start with the door: a broken spring, a cable off its drum or a binding roller. Fix those first; see cable and drum repair. If the opener itself has failed, parts and programming are specific to the maker and model, so have the model number ready.

What we do

We service and install all opener types and brands; most common are LiftMaster, Chamberlain and Genie. Not an authorized dealer for any brand. Licensed and insured, and we service and install all brands. Proof of insurance, license and 1099 available on request.

Call (781) 602-0737 and send a photo of the wall on each side of the door.

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Call (781) 602-0737

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