30" Channel Balance and Top Sash Guide

Thanks for writing in. Yes, I agree, this does look like an S380-30. The only other possibility might be our S385-30. The only difference is the depth of the bottom nylon shoe, or the 'heel-to-toe' measurement, between both Series of balances. The Series 380 has a 1" deep shoe, while the Series 385 has a 1-3/32" deep shoe. It's a bit hard to tell from picture of a measuring tape, so double-check this to be certain.

Now, you'll need to select a stamp option. Your stamp code of 2990 is from an older rating system we do not use. The safest course of action is to weigh your window sash. You can then match that exact weight with one of the weight ranges listed alongside each stamp option on the shop page. Let me know if you have any further questions.

Hello there. You are correct: the S380-30 30" balance, with a 1" bottom nylon shoe depth, is what you need. 

Now, your old stamp code of 2990 38 actually indicates a balance calibrated for a 38 lb sash. So typically we'd advise you use a stamp option of 2965, which is for a window sash that weighs 35 through 39 lbs. That said, if the sash is indeed exactly 33 lbs, then a stamp option of 2960, for a sash that weighs 32 through 35 lbs, would make more sense. Did you ever have trouble keeping the windows closed before the balances wore down? If so, it's possible they were too strong for the window, and the 2960 option would be more appropriate.

Broken balances will no longer hold up the sash, and you can tell when they go bad if the sash can't stay open, drops down, or makes a horrible sound when being used. If your old balances also use the old rating system, you will need to obtain the exact weight of those sashes to figure out what you need. 

Yep, I've seen the 18-166 used with the Series 380 before; so long as the parts match what you have, they should work fine for you. My pleasure to help, Joe. Let us know if you need anything else, and thanks so much for considering our business.

You're quite welcome.