If your Genie garage door opener has suddenly stopped working correctly or fails to stop at the right open or close point, the culprit might be a small but critical component: the Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R.
This part plays a crucial role in the performance, reliability, and safety of your garage door system. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this essential switch—from what it does, how it works, symptoms of failure, installation, and maintenance tips.
Whether you’re a homeowner tackling a DIY repair or a technician looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide is designed to be informative, detailed, and easy to understand.
What Is the Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R?
The Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R is a specialized electrical component designed to control the stopping points of your garage door. It’s used in Genie screw drive systems and is part of the motor rail assembly that ensures the door stops at the fully open and fully closed positions.
Why It Matters:
Without a properly working limit switch, your garage door opener won’t know when to stop running. This can lead to:
- The door stopping short of the ground
- The door not opening fully
- Motor overruns, which can burn out the motor or damage internal gears
- Safety hazards or inability to secure the garage properly
The 20113R model is a direct replacement limit switch for many Genie screw drive units and includes two magnetic reed switches—one for the open limit and one for the close limit.
How the Limit Switch Works in a Screw Drive System
In a screw drive garage door opener, the motor drives a long threaded rod (the screw), which moves a carriage attached to the door. The limit switch assembly, including the Genie 20113R switch, sits along the motor rail.
The magnetic reed switches are triggered by magnets mounted on the moving carriage. As the carriage travels, it activates the reed switches at the preset open and close positions, sending signals to the motor to stop.
This operation allows for:
- Precise door positioning
- Protection against over-travel
- Safe and efficient operation
Compatible Genie Models
The 20113R limit switch is compatible with a wide range of Genie screw drive openers, particularly those made before the early 2010s. Popular compatible models include:
- Genie IS, ISL, and IMS Series
- Genie Pro98 and Pro88 models
- Excelerator Series
- Chain Glide (older screw-drive versions)
- CM7600/8600 and other contractor-grade units
Always refer to your owner’s manual or the official Genie website to confirm compatibility before purchasing.
Common Signs the 20113R Limit Switch Needs Replacement
Like any mechanical or electrical component, the limit switch can wear out or fail over time. Here are the most common symptoms indicating it may be time to replace your Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R:
1. Door Fails to Fully Open or Close
If your door stops too soon or continues to run even when it’s already closed, your limit switch may be misaligned, damaged, or completely faulty.
2. Motor Keeps Running
A dead or misaligned limit switch won’t signal the motor to stop. This can lead to grinding, overheating, or full system failure.
3. Inconsistent Door Behavior
Sometimes the door opens fine but fails to close properly—or vice versa. That’s a strong sign that one of the reed switches in the limit assembly is malfunctioning.
4. Audible Clicking Without Movement
If you hear clicking noises without any door motion, the carriage may be reaching the switch but the switch isn’t responding.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the Genie 20113R Limit Switch
Tools You’ll Need:
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Wire cutter/stripper
- Replacement 20113R limit switch
- Ladder
Safety First:
- Unplug the garage door opener before starting
- Ensure the door is fully closed
- Use caution when working at height or near electrical components
Replacement Process:
- Unplug the Power: Always cut power to prevent accidental operation.
- Access the Motor Rail: Use your ladder to reach the opener rail where the switch assembly is located.
- Remove the Rail Cover: Use a screwdriver to remove any covers or guards around the limit switch.
- Disconnect Wires: Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the old limit switch.
- Unclip or Unscrew the Old Switch: Depending on your model, remove the old switch from the rail.
- Install the New 20113R Switch: Snap or screw it into place in the same orientation.
- Reconnect the Wiring: Match wire colors or use wire labels to ensure correct connections.
- Adjust Magnet Positions: Make sure the magnets on the carriage align with the switch points.
- Test the System: Restore power and test opening/closing to confirm the switch activates at the correct points.
- Fine-Tune as Needed: Adjust magnet placement or limit switch slightly if stopping points are off.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Performance
To extend the life of your Genie limit switch 20113R and opener system, follow these maintenance tips:
1. Clean the Rail and Carriage Area
Dust, grease, or debris can interfere with the switch magnets or reed sensors.
2. Inspect Wiring Annually
Look for frayed, loose, or corroded wires and replace them to prevent short circuits.
3. Check Magnet Alignment
If the carriage magnets are misaligned with the switch sensors, the switch won’t activate properly.
4. Test Function Quarterly
Manually test door open/close limits and adjust if necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Limit Switch Issues
Even after installing a new switch, issues can occur. Here’s how to handle some common problems:
Issue 1: Door Stops Midway
Solution: Check for magnet alignment with the new switch. You may need to move the magnets slightly along the rail.
Issue 2: Opener Does Nothing
Solution: Confirm that power is restored and all wires are properly connected. Test the switch continuity with a multimeter.
Issue 3: Door Reverses Immediately After Closing
Solution: This could be a sensor alignment issue, not a limit switch problem. Check safety beams at the bottom of the garage door.
Where to Buy the Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R
When buying replacement parts for your Genie opener, it’s important to choose genuine products. You can purchase the 20113R limit switch from:
- Genie’s official website
- Authorized Genie parts dealers
- Online retailers like Amazon, eBay (check seller reviews)
- Local hardware stores that stock Genie parts
Avoid counterfeit or off-brand switches that may not function reliably or may not meet Genie’s specifications.
Why Choose the 20113R Over Universal Limit Switches?
Some homeowners look for universal options to save money. However, the Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R is designed to work specifically with Genie’s proprietary systems. Benefits include:
- Exact fit for Genie screw drive rails
- Reliable magnetic reed switch design
- Plug-and-play installation
- Trusted performance from a name-brand manufacturer
Universal switches may not align properly or provide the consistent stopping behavior needed for safety and security.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Garage Door Safe and Reliable with the Right Limit Switch
The Genie Garage Door Opener Screw Drive Limit Switch 20113R may be a small part, but its role in your opener system is absolutely essential. From ensuring precise door travel to protecting your motor and gear assembly, this limit switch plays a major part in keeping your garage door functioning correctly.
If your opener is acting up or showing signs of wear, don’t overlook this component. With proper replacement and maintenance, your Genie screw drive system can last for many years, providing safe, smooth, and reliable service.
