channel balance spring

A quick learner from San Jose, CA 95138 says:
I'm looking for the 26" channel balance with the code # 25 4 HS Cadwell.

BR,
Tien
User submitted photos of a window balance.
Profile picture of Tom
Tom from SWISCO responded:
This looks like either an S380-26 or an S385-26 with a 2540 stamp option. You can verify the length by measuring the metal, as it appears you did, and you can verify the option by weighing the window. It should weigh between 19 and 25 pounds. As for the Series, measure the bottom shoe as shown below and choose the proper balance. Series 380 has a 1" shoe, and Series 385 has the 1-3/32" shoe in the picture.
Comparison of the S380 and S385 balance shoes.
Comparison of the S380 and S385 balance shoes.
A home owner from US says:
Hi,'
Like a previous question you answered, I have a :
26" channel balance with the code # 25 4 GN Caldwell.
Which I guess is a 2540 stamp option.

When I take it out and weigh it, it's like 18.5 lbs.
Seems like right in the middle of a 2530-40
So, older windows that are heavy to open. Would a 2530 be easier to open or 2540?
Any advise would be appreciated.
Thanks
Profile picture of Tom
Tom from SWISCO responded:
If your old stamp was 2540 and you found it worked fine, then you could stick with it. That said, I'd usually recommend 2530 for an 18.5 pound sash just because the minimum sash weight that the 2540 option can support exceeds the weight of your sash. A stronger spring isn't always better. But again, if you found 2540 worked fine in the past then you can stick with it if you prefer.
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