Balance is not stamped but has blue ink printing of the following
"20 2 FV CMC 2" Which part do I use?
Thank you in advance
20 2 FV CMC 2 Channel Balace

Quick Learner from San Diego
May 30, 2011 1:15 pm
7 Replies

Tom from SWISCO
May 31, 2011 10:55 am


Good Morning,
Thanks for giving us the stamp number. Unfortunately the stamp number only tells us the length and strength of the internal channel spring. We need to a see a photo of both the top and bottom of the balance determine which replacement series you need. Please submit pictures of the top and bottom attachments and we will be able to identify which part you will need to order.
Thanks for giving us the stamp number. Unfortunately the stamp number only tells us the length and strength of the internal channel spring. We need to a see a photo of both the top and bottom of the balance determine which replacement series you need. Please submit pictures of the top and bottom attachments and we will be able to identify which part you will need to order.

Quick Learner from San Diego
May 31, 2011 1:58 pm
here are the top and bottoms.
Another important issue that i need help with is it seems that there is a bit too much side to side play in the sash, even with the balances installed.
The ones photographed "work" but are not the originals. Is there a way to "tighten up" the window once the chanels are in or do I need different top and bottom pieces that may keep it more snug in there.
Another important issue that i need help with is it seems that there is a bit too much side to side play in the sash, even with the balances installed.
The ones photographed "work" but are not the originals. Is there a way to "tighten up" the window once the chanels are in or do I need different top and bottom pieces that may keep it more snug in there.


Quick Learner from san diego
May 31, 2011 2:30 pm
No. I do not have anything to reference. Is there some sort of direction you can give me?

Tom from SWISCO
May 31, 2011 2:33 pm


We come across this once in a while that a window balance was replaced with a "similar" balance series. Do you have another window in the house that is the same make and model with the original balance still? It can be a different size, we can figure out the strength another way. What we need to know is what style channel balance should be used in your window.

Quick Learner from San Diego
May 31, 2011 2:37 pm
here is the top part of the sash itself.


Casey from SWISCO
May 31, 2011 8:25 pm


The balance fittings in the photos you sent appear to be 19-005 top and 15-004 bottom.
Next, check the length of the channel balance. A balance with the stamp 20 2 will often translate to a 21" length balance with stamp 2020
To check stamp option, remove window sash and place it on a scale.
The 2020 stamp will carry a window sash weight range of 8 through and including 12 pounds.
This information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.
Let us know if the length or weight differs than listed above.
If you are ready to proceed with a 21" balance with stamp 2020 and 19-005 and 15-004 fittings attached, order S385-21 with the option of 2020.
Next, check the length of the channel balance. A balance with the stamp 20 2 will often translate to a 21" length balance with stamp 2020
To check stamp option, remove window sash and place it on a scale.
The 2020 stamp will carry a window sash weight range of 8 through and including 12 pounds.
This information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.
Let us know if the length or weight differs than listed above.
If you are ready to proceed with a 21" balance with stamp 2020 and 19-005 and 15-004 fittings attached, order S385-21 with the option of 2020.
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