Broken balances

Home Owner from Santa Cruz, CA
Hello,
both of the S385-27" (2640) balances that I purchased in March of 2012 have broken again. I think its just the string. Can that be replaced? If so is there instruction on how to do this? Is there something more heavy duty S385-27
6 Replies
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
I'm afraid the strings cannot be replaced. If your balances broke after only three years, the issue may be the spring strength. Let's go over that briefly.

Looking at your first discussion, your original balances were marked with "26 4," which corresponds to our 2640 option. Two balances with this option can carry a sash weight of 19 through 26 pounds.

However, this may not be correct. Did you ever find that your old balances didn't operate correctly? Can you confirm for me the weight of your sash? You can determine this by removing it from the window and placing it on a scale. This will allow us to confirm exactly what kind of stamp option will work for you, whether it be 2640 or something else.
Quick Learner from Santa Cruz
Hello Tom,
The sash weighs 21 lbs, so by your description it looks like I have the correct units. The balances are inexpensive, so I'll just buy another pair, it just that the other window has lasted a decade. Maybe my kids abuse this window more. I'll order another set. Thanks for looking into it.
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Sure, it is possible for a balance's life span to shorten if it's used a lot. Let us know if you ever need anything else.
Quick Learner from Ca
Stamped 2640 bs1 BL.
Spring does not start at end. Side with hook white plastic, other end is brown plastic. Can you help. Pictures of good one last picture of broken pin that holds springs.
5 user uploaded images
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

As long as your bottom fitting has a depth of 1-3/32" as shown below, you would need the S385-27 channel balance with a 2640 strength option for a sash weighing between 19-26 lbs. Take a look and thanks for posting.

Close up view of the S385 balance shoe.
Close up view of the S385 balance shoe.

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