Which screws to use to mount the magnet

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9 comments

  • Official comment
    Scott Riesebosch

    Thank you and you are absolutely correct! We are updating our videos and manual to reflect the fact that we've changed to self-tapping screws to make the installation a bit easier.

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  • Scott Riesebosch

    Just wanted to add to this thread that we have updated the installation video to show exactly which screws are used to mount the magnet. It is at the 6:00 mark in the current video and will probably change in future video updates. We have also updated the printed installation manual, but of course it takes time for the new inventory to flush through Amazon's warehouses so I don't know exactly when the updated print manuals will reach end customers.

    Bottom line - the installation video is current and covers a lot of material and tips.

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  • Archie H. Hubbard

    I cheated on the magnet sensor install.  I was in a hurry to test the main kit and the 2nd door kit.  I installed the clamp-to-the-rail part first.  Then used double-sided tape to stick the magnet next to the clamped part.  Adjusted the side screw to align the two pieces.  I am planning to leave it this way until I am sure everything will work as advertised.  After a month or two, I will drill the holes through the tape to perm. secure the magnets in place with the self-tapping screws. You can adjust the magnet slider to realign since screws will lower the magnet alignment somewhat.  It would be helpful to tell us what size metal drill bit to use to properly utilize the self-tapping screws supplied.

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  • Archie H. Hubbard

    Thank you for the reply.

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  • Archie H. Hubbard

    After watching the Video again as you suggested, I heard the man say, "Self-tapping screws are provided and you don't have to drill any holes in the door".   My door has lots and lots of different sized holes scattered up and down the door frame.  However, none of the holes align with the openings in your magnet bracket.  Therefore, holes will need to be drilled to secure the bracket.

    I heard no mention of the drill bit needed to drill holes for the self-tapping screws because the video assumes we all have holes in the door that avoid drilling..NOT the case with my door.

     

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  • Brian H

    Self-tapping screws are supposed to be able to be used without a drill bit, as they have a tip that’s designed to drill a hole before the threads catch. However, I did drill pilot holes to make the process easier. Did you see the size I used in my original post?

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  • Archie H. Hubbard

    Brian,

    I did but you said, "I used 5/64 bit and pretty sure 1/8 is too large.."  I also, see that my definition of self-tapping was in error.  Since I am not a DIY kind of guy, I have limitations understanding some lingo, etc.  I have the picture now.  Thanks for reply.

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  • Thomas Wright

    I Received my Tailwind today. with the newer Magnetic Door Position Sensor and Door Sensing Cable but the way that my garage door is designed "I Need The Side Mounting Sensor and Magnet" instead of the Top Mounted one. Believe me, short of bending or trying to reshape the brackets to fit, it is almost impossible to do. I don't want to damage the hardware because I may have to return it. Can I make an exchange?

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  • Scott Riesebosch

    Hi Thomas,

    Do you have a door with a support bracket across the top?

    If so, this is the simplest solution. Simply loosen one screw / bolt holding the support bracket in place, slip the Tailwind bracket behind it, and tighten it back up.

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