Genie Chain Drive 500 & 550

Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Openers (Models 500 & 550) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener, covering both Model 500 and Model 550. These openers are designed for reliable and durable performance, featuring a robust chain drive system for smooth and consistent operation. Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation or operation to ensure safe and correct usage.

2. Safety Information

Your safety and the safety of others are very important. This instruction manual outlines important safety messages. Always read and obey all safety messages.

General Safety Precautions:

  • Keep clear of the moving door: Never walk or run under a moving garage door.
  • Supervise children: Do not allow children to play with the garage door opener controls or near the garage door.
  • Regular inspection: Periodically check the garage door opener and door for proper balance and operation.
  • Disconnect power: Always disconnect power to the garage door opener before performing any maintenance or repairs.

Integrated Safety Features:

  • Safe-T-Beam System: This system uses an infrared beam of light across the door opening. If the beam is interrupted while the door is closing, the door will automatically reverse to prevent accidents. Ensure these sensors are always properly aligned and free from obstructions.
  • Intellicode Security Technology: This technology prevents unauthorized persons from opening your garage door by automatically changing the access code every time you use it.
  • Genie Sense Diagnostic Technology: This feature continuously monitors the operation of the garage door, stopping movement if significant changes occur, enhancing safety and preventing damage.

3. Product Overview and Included Components

Your Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener comes with essential components for installation and operation. The specific accessories may vary slightly between Model 500 and Model 550.

Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener with accessories

Image 1: Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener (Model 2035 shown) with included accessories, such as remotes, wireless keypad, wall console, and Safe-T-Beam sensors.

Model 550 Components:

Genie Chain Drive 550 included accessories

Image 2: Accessories included with Genie Chain Drive 550: two pre-programmed 3-button remotes, a multi-function wall console, a wireless keyless keypad, and the Safe-T-Beam system.

  • Garage Door Opener Head Unit
  • Durable Chain Drive Rail System (5-piece, pre-assembled chain)
  • Two (2) Pre-Programmed 3-Button Remotes
  • Wireless Keyless Keypad
  • Multi-Function Wall Console (with light control and vacation lock)
  • Safe-T-Beam Safety Sensor System

Model 500 Components:

Genie Chain Drive 500 included accessories

Image 3: Genie Chain Drive 500 Garage Door Opener (Model 1035 shown) with included accessories: one pre-programmed remote, a lighted wall button, and the Safe-T-Beam system.

  • Garage Door Opener Head Unit
  • Durable Chain Drive Rail System (5-piece, pre-assembled chain)
  • One (1) Pre-Programmed Remote
  • Lighted Wall Button
  • Safe-T-Beam Safety Sensor System
Close-up of durable chain drive

Image 4: A close-up view of the durable, factory-assembled chain drive system, illustrating its robust construction for reliable and smooth operation.

4. Setup and Installation

Installation of your Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener involves mounting the unit, assembling the rail, and connecting the safety sensors and controls. It is recommended to have two people for installation.

Pre-Installation Checklist:

  • Ensure your garage door is in good working condition and properly balanced.
  • Verify that you have all components listed in Section 3.
  • Gather necessary tools (e.g., ladder, drill, wrenches, measuring tape).

Key Installation Steps:

  1. Assemble the Rail System: The 5-piece rail system snaps together easily without requiring additional hardware. The chain is factory pre-assembled for convenience.
  2. Mount the Opener: Securely mount the opener head unit and rail system to the garage ceiling and header bracket above the door.
  3. Install Safety Sensors: Mount the Safe-T-Beam sensors on each side of the garage door opening, approximately 6 inches above the floor. Ensure they are aligned so the infrared beam is unobstructed.
  4. Connect Controls: Wire the wall console/button and connect the power cord to a grounded outlet.
  5. Adjust Travel Limits: Follow the instructions in your detailed manual to set the open and close travel limits for your garage door.
  6. Test Safety Features: Test the Safe-T-Beam system and the auto-reverse function to ensure they are working correctly.

Compatibility:

  • These openers are compatible with 7-foot high sectional garage doors.
  • For 8-foot high garage doors, an extension kit is required and sold separately.
  • The openers work with Homelink and Car2U systems without requiring additional repeaters or bridges.

5. Operating Instructions

Your Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener offers multiple ways to operate your garage door.

Using the Remote Controls:

  • The included remotes are pre-programmed for immediate use.
  • Press the desired button on the remote to open or close the garage door.
  • If the door is moving, pressing the button again will stop it. Pressing it a third time will reverse its direction.

Using the Wireless Keypad (Model 550):

  • Enter your personal PIN number on the keypad, then press the ENTER button to open or close the door.
  • Instructions for setting or changing your PIN are provided in the detailed manual.

Using the Wall Console / Lighted Wall Button:

  • Press the main button on the wall console (Model 550) or lighted wall button (Model 500) to operate the door.
  • Model 550 Multi-Function Wall Console: This console includes additional buttons for light control (to turn the opener's light on/off independently) and a vacation lock feature (to disable all remote controls for added security when away).

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your garage door opener.

  • Monthly: Check the Safe-T-Beam sensors for proper alignment and ensure they are free from obstructions. Test the auto-reverse safety feature by placing an object in the door's path.
  • Annually: Inspect the chain for proper tension. While the chain drive system is designed for low maintenance, occasional lubrication of moving parts (as specified in the full manual) can extend its life.
  • Door Balance: Ensure your garage door is properly balanced. If the door does not stay open halfway when disconnected from the opener, it may require adjustment by a qualified technician.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your Genie Chain Drive Garage Door Opener.

Common Issues and Solutions:

  • Door does not open or close:
    • Check if the power cord is securely plugged in.
    • Ensure the vacation lock feature (Model 550) is not engaged.
    • Verify that the Safe-T-Beam sensors are aligned and unobstructed.
  • Remote control not working:
    • Replace the remote control battery.
    • Ensure you are within range of the opener.
    • Reprogram the remote if necessary (refer to the detailed manual).
  • Door reverses unexpectedly:
    • Check for obstructions in the door's path or near the Safe-T-Beam sensors.
    • Inspect the door for proper balance.
    • The Genie Sense diagnostic technology may have detected an issue; consult the full manual for error codes.

For more complex issues or if troubleshooting steps do not resolve the problem, please contact Genie's US-based technical support.

8. Specifications

FeatureSpecification
BrandGenie
Model NumbersChain Drive 500, Chain Drive 550
Drive TypeChain Drive
Motor TypeDC Motor
MaterialMetal
Installation TypeScrew-In
Door Height CompatibilityUp to 7 ft (8 ft with extension kit, sold separately)
Door Weight Capacity (Model 500)Up to 350 lbs
Safety FeaturesSafe-T-Beam System, Intellicode Security, Genie Sense Diagnostics

9. Warranty and Support

Genie provides US-based technical support representatives available by phone or chat to assist with any questions or issues regarding your garage door opener. For specific warranty details, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official Genie website.

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