Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Sears craftsman 1/2 hp garage door opener, sears craftsman, drive sprocket

Question
We went to church and used our garage door opener and when we returned it would not work.  The motor makes a noise but nothing happens.  Could you give me an idea what could be wrong.  I also have a garage door opener in the house and got out of the car and tried it and it wouldn't open the door either.  It has chains but nothing moves but the motor continues to run for a moment.

Answer
Hi Ed,

Sorry for my delay.  My ISP was down.

It sounds like the drive sprocket or clutch has either failed or has loosened.  You will need to disassemble the drive head and take a look inside.  If the unit is older than 10 years it may not be worth it and a replacement opener may be the way to go.

If you do try to repair it, let me know what you find and we can go from there.

Michael