Caldwell channel balances

Handy Person from Oregon

Jul 30, 2013 9:28 pm

Need 3 pairs or channel balances. Lengths are 26, 26, and 32. I have what I think are pan am clips on one side of each window. I am unclear how these work and how to use them to install new channel balances.

Thanks,
Anne

User submitted photos of a window balance.

8 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 31, 2013 3:31 pm

Hey, thanks for posting. I've narrowed this down to two possible channel balance Series: either our Series 380 or our Series 385 balances.

Now, as you can see, there is only one difference between these two Series, and that is their bottom shoe. The Series 380 uses the 15-005 while the Series 385 uses the 15-004. I can't quite tell what you have based on your pictures, though. Please carefully compare their dimensions to your own hardware and see which is a better match.

Comparison of 15-004 and 15-005

Handy Person from Oregon

Jul 31, 2013 4:42 pm

also, it asks about stamp options on the ordering page? What does this mean and how do I know if I need one?

thanks,
Anne

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 1, 2013 8:34 am

Hey, Anne. Every balance has an option. This determines what the strength of the spring is. Each balance page has a chart that lists the options we have and what their strengths are. Compare these options to the stamps already existing on your balances or, even better, the weight of your window sash.

Handy Person from Oregon

Aug 2, 2013 9:27 am

Hello! So if the number on the balance says 31 4 I am looking for option 3140 on the ordering page?

Thanks,
Anne

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 2, 2013 11:16 am

I agree. I think that's the best way to go. However, you might want to weigh your window sash just to make sure.

Handy Person from Oregon

Aug 5, 2013 11:34 am

What do the markings "KM" or "LM" on the balance indicate?

Thanks,
Anne

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 6, 2013 8:31 am

It varies from balance to balance, but usually that kind of marking is a manufacturer tag.