Rynoski - hi, a search of this thread would show you this general problem has been covered several times. If you didn't get the owner's manual for the unit when you got it/moved in, you should get the model number and then check the S-ears website for it. Chances are you can download it for free.

Based on my limited experience with an old Genie unit and a new one I just installed to replace the old one, it could be a couple things. (1) The upward/door opening limit switch has somehow gotten out of adjustment. (2) The magnet used to tell the motor to cut off (the Genie models use this) has been moved or has come off. (3) A voltage spike may have damaged the control board, making the upward/door opening movement limit switch malfunction.

The manual will provide some troubleshooting steps and tips that you can easily try. Good luck and keep us posted! Jim D/Heathsville, VA

In my Craftsman unit, there is an adjustable contact. You can make the adjustment from the outside of the unit, but if the contact (or a wire on it) is broken, you'll have to remove the cover to see it. Once the cover is removed, it's easy to see what it is and how it works. You'll be able to tell if it's broken. If nothing appears damaged, then the control circuit has probably failed. In that case, you might want to replace the unit.

This unit does not have a magnet (as described above) or anything that attaches to the chain to trip a switch. It uses a worm gear and all the control is inside the box.

[This message has been edited by rpxlpx (edited February 26, 2003).]

Jim D - I did do a search on all the garage door type posts and no one had this specific problem. Also we already contacted §ears and found out that this particular model some 10 years old now has a manual available at chaimberlan mfct the OEM provider. Upon finding this manual it says this particular problem can be solved by changing the switch to a lower setting on the back of the unit.
Problem is one is the lowest setting and we already have it there.

RPX - since this switch setting is already at its lowest what could have happened to this worm gear that would allow it not to stop as it should??

[This message has been edited by rynoski (edited February 26, 2003).]

The worm gear operates a contact. If the contact is broken or dirty, it will not make connection, and the door will keep moving until is crashes into the bolt - as you've seen.
You'll have to open up the unit to see this contact.

[This message has been edited by rpxlpx (edited February 27, 2003).]

Hmm ok thanks. We'll crack her open and see what we can find out. Thanks for the 411.

Ryan