Looking for correct sash balance

Home Owner from Washington

Aug 20, 2017 11:13 am

Hi,

I'm looking for a couple of balances for some vinyl windows I bought about 20 years ago. They were built in Spokane WA, but the lumber yard that ordered them is no longer in business and there is no manufacturer listed on the window.

The metal part of the balance is 13 inches, width is 9/16 inches and the depth is approximately 1/2 inch. The sash weights 9 pounds. 1201 is printed on the balance.

Thanks,
Bob

User submitted a photo of a window balance.

8 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 24, 2017 2:27 pm

For starters, check the stamp. 1201 is a weird number. Could it be 1210? Your 13" balance is either a Series 380 or a Series 385, and you can measure the shoe to tell the difference. Take the measurement shown in the photo below and compare: a 1" shoe belongs to Series 380 and the depicted 1-3/32" shoe belongs to a Series 385.

Comparison of the S378, S380 and S385 balance shoes.

Quick Learner from Southeastern Washington state

Aug 24, 2017 6:52 pm

Mike,

I measured the plastic part and it is slightly over 1 inch, so I guess that makes it a 380 series. I attached a picture of the number on mine and it is 1201.

Thanks
Bob

User submitted photos of a window balance.

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 28, 2017 2:47 pm

If your depth is slightly over an inch, then the Series 385 may be what you want. It's possible that it wore down a little from its original 1-3/32" due to age and use.

That stamp is weird, though. I would weigh your sash on a scale to confirm the best option.

Quick Learner from southeastern WA state

Aug 28, 2017 7:53 pm

I remeasured the plastic piece with my caliper and it is 1.081. I think the 385 series is what I need. The window weighs just under 10 pounds.

Bob

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 29, 2017 10:32 am

For an S385-13, a 9-10 pound sash requires a 1230 stamp option. That should be all you need to know in order to make a purchase!

Quick Learner from southeaster WA state.

Aug 29, 2017 11:37 am

Mike and Tom,

Thanks for all your help. I'll order this set right away and then start checking my other windows and get replacements ordered for those that need it. I'll keep coming back to SWISCO just for the customer service.

Thanks,
Bob

Tom from SWISCO

Aug 29, 2017 12:24 pm

No problem, Bob. We appreciate your business.