Aluminum Windows balances

Handy Person from Miami

Hi guys,

these are the widows in question ..the channel balances .. The rods are ½ in width & about 18 inches long, with a spring inside.. I cleaned the window & both C.B. were ok so siliconed them and replaced ... The only thing was missing I think was the thing that stops them from wobbling from side to side, when you open & close them (Only the bottom window opens upwards) Do you need the actual number of C.B. or is this sufficient info ?

Thank you so much

Lucien

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7 Replies
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

I notice in your photos that you are missing a top sash guide. We can help you locate a replacement for that. First, we would like for you to retrieve another one off the window and send us some photos. Make sure to include measurements and dimensions.. This will help us locate the proper match for you. 

Handy Person from Miami Beach
Thanks Paul,
Will send when I get around to repairing the other ... in about a week ...
Thanks for getting back
Handy Person from Miami Beach

Thanks for response yesterday here are a couple of shots of the channel balance I took out today it measures 24¼" x ?? ?. all 4 ( Both windows ) seem to be all ok apart from the plastic things at the top ( There seems to be a small rivet holding these in place ) ? I might need 1 new balance ? Please advise

Thanks

Lucien

2 user uploaded images
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Depending on the depth of the bottom shoe, you could have either our Series 351 or Series 390. Please confirm which is closer; you'll have to measure your bottom shoe. 

Can you just confirm the length of the metal channel? It should end on a full inch. If it is 24-1/4" long, it will have to be specially made. 

Finally, please tell me what that stamp reads. It's a little too faded and I can't make it out. If you can't read it either, please tell me the exact weight of the sash down to the ounce. That will allow us to calculate the proper spring strength.

Quick Learner from Miami
WOWWWW ..... This is getting complicated ... Do not have the equipment to actually weigh them ???? I put the widow back in thinking that the info & measurements would d be adequate info ??? would you please suggest how and where I may do this ..
Thanks
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Balances can be complicated, I'm afraid. These are pretty delicate counter balance systems whose springs are calibrated to support specific weights. These aren't just a one-and-done kind of setup. Not only that, but it seems that whoever installed your window used a special 1/4" length. Most balances aren't made that way. I've asked you to confirm just in case. I want to be 100% sure we get you the right hardware.

As for the sash weight, we can usually use the stamp to determine what spring strength calibration you have. However like I mentioned, yours is too faded to make out. I just can't read it. If you can't tell us what your stamp reads, you need to remove the sash from the window and place it on a scale to tell us its exact weight. Any common bathroom scale should do.

I also still need you to confirm whether you have the Series 351 or Series 390. The only difference is the size of the bottom shoe. 

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