Spacer to help operation of window

I am in Tampa also, and it looks like the S380-30 and 2950 (30lb) is what I need for my window.

I have had several of the top sash guides break due to UV (the house is now 13yo), and ordered the replacements from you guys (PN 18-166). I've replaced them in several windows, but the window that needs this S380-30 was not like the others.

When the window had both balances properly seated, there was still about 1/4" lateral play on the window. That is, unless I pull/push it straight up/down with equal force on both sides, it would cock slightly, just enough for the balance to shoot past the new top sash.

I compared the old and new top sash guides, and they are identical. I think when they installed the window frame, they made the opening just a bit larger (or the window panel just a bit smaller) than it should have been, and now there is too much play.

Is there a way to add a spacer or some kind of sleeve in the 1/2" channel that will take up some of that slack? or is there a slightly deeper balance or top/bottom sash guide that would have the same effect?

Thanks,
Eric

Thanks Paul. That looks like it should do the trick. One further question before I buy two... Is it only the shoe (bottom) that is wider, or is the whole balance (or the top) also wider? I'm concerned that if the only padded/wider part is on the bottom, the window may still pivot laterally around at the areas where there is no extra width. Does that make sense? Thanks!

Well, for $20, it's worth a shot. I've ordered the deeper balancers as you've recommended.

On a related note, the original balancers were binding where the grey plastic sleds connect to the springs. The sleds themselves were rubbing on the inside of the balance track causing the movement to be very inconsistent and jerky. I tried adding some lithium grease to the inside of the balancer, but that didn't seem to help. Hopefully these new ones are a little better.

Paul, the new deeper balances came in today. Within 5 min, I had them installed. Works PERFECTLY. There is ZERO lateral movement of the window within the frame. It's too bad the shoes can't be swapped. With them being riveted in, it's an all or nothing endeavor. Thanks again for your help!