Channel Balance

Quick Learner from Los Angeles

Jul 2, 2021 7:39 pm

I am looking for a channel balance 16" long. It has a stamp 1620 on it. The width is 1/2" I am not sure about the top and bottom attachments. The bottom is definitely broken, and I have no other pieces from it.

The sash weight is 8 lbs.

Can you help me identify the correct part numbers?

5 user uploaded images

5 Replies

Quick Learner from Los Angeles

Jul 2, 2021 7:43 pm

I forgot to add that it is for a non-tilt aluminum window.

Emily from SWISCO

Jul 7, 2021 2:57 pm

Hi there!

It looks like you have either our S351-17, with a 15-002 bottom attachment, or S390-17, with a 15-001 bottom attachment. Take a look at the image below to determine which balance you'll need. You'll also need a spring strength option of 1620.

When measuring your balance make sure to only include the metal channel in your measurement. Your stamp is "1620" which means your metal channel should measure as 17".

If you have any further questions just let us know.

Comparison of the S351 and S390 balance shoes.

Quick Learner from Los Angeles

Jul 8, 2021 9:15 am

The channel balance is only measuring 16". I thought the 1620 stamp was more of a reference for the spring tension. Should I be replacing the 16" channel balance with a 17" instead? Would that fit the window?

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 8, 2021 12:43 pm

If the stamp on your balance is 1620 then the metal channel should be 17" long. I can't quite tell from the angle of your last photo what the length is for sure, but I highly recommend double checking that.

Assuming that it is 16" long then that means that the installers cut it down by an inch before they put it in. It's uncommon but it does happen, they must have had a good reason for it. If that's the case then you can use our 16" balances but you will have to weigh your sash to determine the proper stamp option; all of the 16" balance stamp options start with a "15," so they would be 1510, 1520, 1530, etc.

You may indeed need a 1520 but I wouldn't bet on it. You should weigh your sash to be sure. We have a chart on both the S351-16 and S390-16 store page that tells you exactly how much weight each option supports.