When replacing or adjusting spiral balances in a non-tilt window, start with the window sash in the lowered position.
Insert replacement balances through the top of the sash groove with the spiral holding the attachments facing downward.
Attach the balance with a screw through the top of the spiral tube, lining it up with the original installation hole.
Next, have someone assist you by supporting the sash high enough to allow you to access the spiral attachment. After making sure that the spiral is fully retracted into the tube, hook a non-tilt charging tool to the end of the spiral and pull it down about 2” to prevent damage while charging.
Start by turning the spiral clockwise 2-3 times, following one turn as needed until you reach the appropriate tension. Both balances will require the same number of turns for equal tension.
Attach the spiral to the bracket fixed to the bottom corner of the sash using the same tool.
Pro Tips:
• Make sure that the spiral rod is not bent while handling or during charging.
• Do not apply more tension than necessary to balance the sash. The same number of turns should be applied to each balance for equal support.
• Be sure balances are centered within the jamb.
• If the bracket used to anchor the spiral to the sash is rusted or broken, replace it using the existing installation holes before installing new balances.
• Be sure that the metal bracket is mounted far enough from the jamb to prevent rubbing.
Anonymous
2 years ago
Shouldn’t this page have explained you have to be able to get the old balance cartridge out first? Is this hard? My balance spirals seem to be hard-attached to the bottom clip or tang. Does this make the process harder?
Casey Rosevelt
2 years ago
Generally, you’d use a charging tool or needlenose pliers to grip the base of the spiral and remove it from the bracket. Then, you’d unscrew the top of the balance from the channel and pull the assembly out of the top of the jamb. This process isn’t easy because older wood windows that use this kind of hardware weren’t meant to be repaired, but it is possible. If you’re having a hard time, please reach out to our experts through the link below so that our team can give you more personalized advice.
https://www.swisco.com/page-id-part
Anonymous
1 year ago
I have non-tilt, non-removable sash windows with spiral balances. The brackets are side mount and there’s not a way to get to the screw to remove them. A few are bent up and I want to replace them with bottom mount. Any tips or tricks for getting the old one out so it’s not in the way?
Casey Rosevelt
9 months ago
Unfortunately, there is no easy solution when dealing with the side-mounted sash brackets but you are welcome to contact our part experts here since they may be able to offer some guidance. Thanks you!
Anonymous
1 year ago
The old metal bracket (the small one that’s pictured above) is screwed in to the window channel from the outside in and these are factory windows that we cant remove the sash to reach it, and clue to help us
Casey Rosevelt
9 months ago
Hello,
I can tell you that there is no easy solution when dealing with the type of non-tilt sash bracket attached to the inside of the sash but you are welcome to contact our part experts here since they may be able to offer some guidance. Thanks for stopping by!
Anonymous
11 months ago
I’m looking for an alternative to the charging tool for a spiral balance in a non-tilt window (I ordered and received one a short while ago but have misplaced it and need to get a window back in operation quickly.). Any suggestions?
Thanks,
JN
Casey Rosevelt
11 months ago
Thanks for visiting our blog! We carry the 75-005 charging tool for non-tilt windows. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out to our team of part experts here.