1960's Aluminum Window Balances

Question

I have original 1960's aluminum windows with spiral balances, white-ish plastic tip and white plastic clips. The balances need to be replaces as well as the clips that attach it to the window and track. These are non-tilting and crappy.
How do I get the clips that slide in the track, out of the track and disconnected from the spiral so I can replace it all?

Bob · Accepted Answer

This looks like possibly our Series 300 Spiral Balance, which uses the 15-011 Shoe, or maybe the Series 301, which uses the 15-012 Shoe. Compare both shoes with the one your old balances use to see which is the right match. Measure the length of the outer tube, as well as its diameter (the diameter should be 3/8"). For the Color Tip, you likely will need to obtain the exact weight of the window sash to confirm what new Color to go with.

For information on how to replace a non-tilt spiral balance, see this blog article here.