Alcoa window balance identification

Question

My name is Richard. I have a window that has broken balances - the window does not stay up at all. The balances do not have a colored tip. There is no tip where the spiral comes out of the plastic tube, at all. The tube measures 9/16" diameter and is 30 inches long from tube end to tube end. The window sash weighs 19 lbs when removed from the window and placed on a scale. Windows were installed in mid 1990's.

Paul · Accepted Answer

I believe your Alcoa tilt window uses S600-30 spiral balances. Please note: our balance tubes are metal, not plastic like yours, to stand up to UV sunlight. The colored tip (indicating the strength of the balance) for your 19 pound sash will be blue. You might also want to purchase a 75-006 charging tool to make for an easier replacement job. Review our videos on the right for more help, as well.