Balance Identification

Quick Learner from USA
We have large window sashes made with aluminum. The pivot shoe is a red cam series 85 pivot shoe. The sashes are large and heavy; one set with a 48.3 pound weight. Each of the sashes had 2x spiral balances on both sides for a total of 4x spiral balances per unit. Many of the red pivot shoes have failed or the spiral balance cross bar pin has failed. The existing balances have a beige color code.

Questions: is there a stronger pivot shoe we can use?

Second: the balances always seemed under-powered - Are they the right balances to use? Is so, we will try additional winding. There is a second set of sashes that are 43.2 pounds each. These lighter sashs have a single spiral balance on both sides of the sash for a total of 2x spiral balances per sash. Please advise.
4 Replies
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
I believe the pivot lock shoe is our 15-048, which is used for commercial windows. Can you confirm? Match up its dimensions and style to your own hardware.

As for the balances, I can't say for sure. It depends on what balances you have now. Please tell me the diameter and length of the tubes, as well as the color tip your balances use. With this information I can determine whether the hardware you have now is up task or if you need to go up a weight rating.
Quick Learner from Providence, RI
Hi Paul,

Yes, the pivot shoe is your 15-048.

The sash was supported with 4 spiral balances, two on each side. Each was a 9/16" wide (5/8") balance, 51" long, with a beige color tip. The sash weighs 48.3 pounds.

What do you recommend. The current system still seemed to not be supporting enough of the window weight.

Thank you,
Barnaby
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Thank you for your patience in this matter. We will have to custom make this balance, since it is so large. I'm going to email you a custom order link and price quote that you can use to place an order on our website. Please let us know if you have any questions! 

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