Channel balance install problems

Question

I bought a pair of S385-24 balances, along with a 90-180 sash lock.

The double photo shows the new balance and obviously the clip didn't hold the balance as I raised the window up.

What I did, is as follows:

I removed the window sash as per the instructions on your video. I did not have to remote the old balances since they were already out and somewhat broken. The clips on both sides were flat against the frame.

I proceeded to take out the clips on both sides of the window and installed the balances as per your video. All was fine the balances were held by the clips as shown in your video. I proceeded to install the window sash.

I started at the top and the sash went in ok (but with some wiggling). Proceeded to lower the sash all the way down but the right-side bottom of the balance appeared to be outside the sash channel.

I lifted the sash to see if I could reposition the bottom plastic part of the balance into the channel and when I pushed the sash further up, the right balance went up and out of the sash as the picture shows. When I tried lowering the sash is when the left side clip popped out and lodged on the channel.

I did try taking it out with needle nose pliers but is wedged pretty good and started to deform. I think I may need new clips.

I was able to install the new lock and the window is locked but will not move.

At this point, it appears I need to install a new clip before trying to remove the jammed one, I welcome your suggestions

Tom · Accepted Answer

Thanks for your patience during this busy summer. I appreciate your thorough description of the issue, this is a huge help.

Reviewing your description and the photos provided, it looks like the balance isn't being held in place by the top sash guide like it should. The top sash guide is the white plastic piece installed on the top two corners of the sash.

Normally, the balance shoots to the top of the track only when the top sash guide breaks, but in your case I see no visible damage. Can you confirm? It's probably in whole condition but it can't hurt to be 100% sure. See if there are any visible cracks or pieces broken off of the top sash guide.

If your top sash guide is in good condition, though, then that complicates matters. It's entirely possible that your window frame is out of square, which is no good. There aren't a lot of easy solutions for that.

Please give me a little more time to look into this and I'll get back to you ASAP. I want to get some other eyes on this and see if anyone has a trick up their sleeve. In the meantime, please let me know if my assessment is at all incorrect and we can adjust accordingly.