1990 Mayfair Double Pane Window
Quick Learner from 70503
May 11, 2024 4:51 pm
My window is hard to open.
Does it slide up & down on that gray plastic cylinder?
Can that gray plastic cylinder be lubricated?
Lubricated with what?
1 user uploaded image
6 Replies
Casey from SWISCO
May 13, 2024 1:22 pm
Hello,
I can't be sure with the hardware still installed but it looks like you window may use spiral balances. If the window still has the original hardware, the balances most likely need to be replaced. To get started, we'd need to see the balance fully removed from the window, as well as confirm the exact length and diameter of the housing tube, to narrow down your options.
If you'd like to try lubricating the balances first, give them a spray of silicone and add new grease to the spiral to see if that helps the window operate more smoothly.Thank you!
Quick Learner from 70503
May 16, 2024 6:11 pm
Follow-Up Question Please
Attached is another picture from the bottom of the window.
Is it better to lubricate that metal spiral rod at the bottom or the grey cylinder at the top (previous picture I sent you) OR BOTH?
EHANKS for your assistance!
2 user uploaded images
Casey from SWISCO
May 17, 2024 8:12 am
The way we like to lubricate spiral balances is to apply white grease to the spiral rod itself. You can use silicone spray in the track to allow the housing tube to move more freely.
Quick Learner from 70503
May 17, 2024 12:07 pm
I have a small bathroom window where the spiral rod shows at the bottom when the window is raised - but ONLY on the right side and NOT on the left side.
I have the same sized window in the laundry room where the spiral rod does NOT show at all on either side when the window is raised.
Both of those windows can be raised & lowered without a lot of effort.
Casey from SWISCO
May 17, 2024 1:28 pm
It looks like one of the balances became detached from the bracket that it attaches to on the bottom corner of the sash. You could try recharging and attaching the spiral end but if that doesn't work, the balances on both sides should be replaced. You'll most likely need either the (3/8") S400 or (5/8") S500 spiral balances depending on the diameter of your housing tube.
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