The sensors are a safety feature. The unit is designed not to allow the door to close automatically unless the photo circuit is complete (i.e. sensor transmitter is connecting with the sensor receiver). As you probably know the door will fully close using the wall switch as long as you hold the button until the door is completely closed.

The logic for this system is embedded in the program on the logic board and is specifically designed not to be easily bypassed. In fact I'm not aware of any site where a procedure to bypass the sensors is available.

Short answer is: Yes, the system will only work with the eyes connected. You need to get some replacement sensors and restore the system for your remotes to work properly.

Hope this helps.

thank you Sdello, I suspected that was the case and your confirmation leads me down the shortest path. Thanks again for your help and happy new year.

no problem. I just noticed that your post topic identifies the GDO as a Sears unit. You can get replacement parts from them either at a service center or online at sears.com

A sensor pair is ~$35. They come with ~6 ft leads and assume that you are going to splice to the existing wires.

Are your sensors present but the wires are cut? Have you tried simply splicing them?

Good luck.