Balance and Top Sash Guide Selection

Handy Person from Oswego, IL

Hello,

I have a Window with stiff window balances that I'd like to replace. One has already ripped through the top sash guide, so I'd like to replace those, as well.

From my measurements, I found the Product Code: S350-27 (27" series 350 channel balance) and option 2640 for 19-26lbs.

I also found the Product Code: 18-188 5/8" Top Sash Guide.

Do these look correct after reviewing my images?

Thank you,Chris

5 user uploaded images
8 Replies
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

I can't see the top fitting on your balance to confirm that it's a match for the Series 350, but as long as it matches our 19-002 fitting then it should be fine.

As for the 18-188, I don't think that's a match. I think you might have the older Milgard brand top sash guide. Is that brand name familiar? If so, this isn't made anymore but you can use our 18-009 as long as you cut off the top "ledge" that sticks out from the base. They should otherwise be the same size. 

Just note that products altered in this way cannot be returned for a refund. You can see our full return policy here.

Handy Person from Oswego, IL

Hi Tom,

Thank you for your help. I attached pictures of the balance top. The 19-002 dimensions fit, but it looks like I have a winged balance top. Will that make much of a difference? Should I go with the S385-27 with the 19-005 instead? Based on the stamp on my balance (26 4) should I go with the 2640 strength option?

I measured my top guide again and you're correct. It's not going to fit. I do have Milgard windows. It looks like the 18-009 should fit if I cut off the ledge. Thank you for the note on the refund. These are inexpensive, so I'm not too worried even if they happen to not fit and I have to get a different one.

Thank you,

Chris

4 user uploaded images
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Great, thanks for verifying! With these photos in mind, I definitely think our Series 385 is the better option for your window, yes.

I'm glad that the 18-009 is a match. Sounds like you're good to go, but please feel free to reach out if you had any follow up questions. We're always here to help!

Handy Person from Oswego, IL
Thanks Tom! One last question. Based on the stamp on my balance (26 4) should I go with the 2640 strength option? Please see the attached picture.
1 user uploaded image
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Yes! The older 26 4 stamp usually matches our 2640. You may want to weigh your sash on a scale before you buy anything, just to be safe. You can see a weight chart on our S385-27 that tells you precisely how much weight each option supports. That said, going by the stamp is usually a safe bet unless you have a reason to suspect that the original was wrong in the first place. It happens, but it's not altogether common.

Handy Person from Oswego, IL
Thanks again for all the help, Tom. I just placed the order.
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Great, thank you! We appreciate the business. Please feel free to reach out if we can offer any further assistance.

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