Removing, charging and installing spiral balance hardware

Question

1. I have no way of removing the existing pivot block so I assume I have to make an entry/exit point in the vinyl to remove the shoe. Where is the best spot to create the the opening to install a new shoe?
2.Using the 15-046 shoe, which of the three slots should the 900 balance spring be inserted.
3. Assuming 900 series, 25 inch balance with a 15 pound window sash, how many turns of tension would you start with?

Casey · Accepted Answer

Hello. Which slot you use in the pivot shoe depends on where your balance is installed in the jamb. Just use the one that is most accessible. As for charging you balance, start with 2-3 turns followed by one turn as needed until you hit a suitable amount of tension. There is no magic number but you should exceed 5 or 6 turns when charging any spiral balance and even that many is usually not necessary.

Take a look at the video below for creating a cut out to remove and install your hardware. Thank you!