Find correct balance

Question

I want to find the correct balance for Milgard Aluminum windows from the early 90's. This is a block and tackle style balance. The metal portion of the original balance is 21" long. As may be seen on image labelled balance-0, the balance is marked "20 4 EL CALDWELL". I believe the balance is 1/2" but have included images with rulers to assist the decision. The Swisco S385-21 or S380-21 seems right, but I am not completely sure which mine is.

Bob · Accepted Answer

Thanks for posting. You are correct, this looks to be either an S380-21 or S385-21. The difference between these two balances is the depth of the bottom nylon shoe, or its 'heel-to-toe' measurement. See the illustration below. Measure the depth of your balance's shoe to figure out which Series you need. In either case for a stamp option choose 2040.

Comparison of the S380 and S385 balance shoes.