15" SERIES 385 CHANNEL BALANCE

Home Owner from Alamo, CA

Jun 11, 2018 1:54 am

I have old Viking non-tilt windows with 15" channels which have 1490 then FG then 21 on them. They are for smaller windows, so it seems they would not need more than the lower numbers like 1420 or 1430. Do you know which is appropriate? I want to buy a few since more than has had the string break recently (as we start opening them to cool off in the evening). Thanks, Paul

5 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jun 11, 2018 3:49 pm

If the window is light, this is probably just an oddly-labeled stock balance. Let's see both end attachments, close up. Can you send photos? As well, how heavy is the window sash? That will help us be certain which option is right for you.

Home Owner from Alamo, CA

Jun 11, 2018 6:06 pm

The ends look exactly the same as what you have. The window is 10.8 pounds (I took it off and weighed it). So I would assume the lightest makes sense. Given the friction in the sliding area, I assume a 10 point weight is just fine?

Tom from SWISCO

Jun 12, 2018 9:24 am

Ah, I didn't see the Series number up in your post's title. I was going to talk you through the Series identification process, but that wasn't necessary.

I see you did order. I think going up to the 1430 option was best. 1430 has a narrower range of weights that averages 11 pounds, versus the 1420 option, which averages 8 pounds.

Home Owner from Alamo, CA

Jun 12, 2018 10:38 am

Thanks. Yes, once you noted that weight is key - I ordered with some margin since the friction of the casement is not very high, so being just over 10 pounds seems safer and the friction is more likely to work against the spring than the weight. Thanks for your help. Regards, Paul