How to Change the Track Wheels on a Screen Door

A screen door that doesn't slide smoothly most often requires changing the track wheels. A screen door uses track wheels much like a sliding glass door. The main difference between the two is that most screen door track wheels are not adjustable. They are also made of lighter-quality steel, which means they tend to wear out faster than the wheels on your sliding door. Changing the track wheels on a screen door requires taking one of the existing assemblies to the store to match a replacement set. Replacement track wheel assemblies are available at home improvement centers.

Flat-head screwdriver
2 sawhorses

Instructions

- 1
  Slide the screen door to the half-open position. Look for two notches on the lower track. The notches allow the track wheels to clear the track when you are removing the door. Grab the sides of the screen door and lift up, compressing the top of the door into the upper track. Swing the bottom of the door away from the bottom track and pull the door from the opening.
- 2
  Lay the screen door flat on a pair of sawhorses. Go to the bottom edge of the screen door panel and locate the track wheel assemblies. There is a roller assembly on each side. Insert a flat-head screwdriver under the body of the track wheel assembly closest to the center of the door.
- 3
  Pry the track wheel assemblies out of the screen door panel. The assemblies include the track wheel, the carrier and an elongated bent spring that secures the assembly to the door. Take one of the assemblies to the store to purchase replacements. Ensure that you purchase assemblies that match the current track wheels. The assemblies have different spring configurations and the door will only accept one type.
- 4
  Slide the new track wheel assemblies into place inside the bottom of the door. Angle the end that mounts closest to the door sides first, and push the opposite side into the door section. The assemblies only go in one way. You will hear them click into place.
- 5
  Lift the screen door panel off the sawhorses and take it over to the door opening. Angle the top of the screen door panel into the upper track and push the bottom into position. Gently lower the door panel. Operate the screen door back and forth to firmly seat the track wheel assemblies.

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