MW Twinseal window balances

Home Owner from Charleston SC

Apr 20, 2018 8:04 pm

I purchased a home that has original MW Twinseal single hung windows throughout from 2000. Almost all of them have broken window balances. I have measured the silver tube (27" x 3/8" diameter)and the black foot (1 1/4"). After studying your website and comments, etc. I think I need the 850 series with balance screw plugs and the screw that goes with plug (#33-016)? I'm not sure how to measure for the balance and of course there is no stamp anywhere! Hopefully my pictures will help confirm what I need. Thank you in advance!!!!

Melissa

4 user uploaded images

9 Replies

Paul from SWISCO

Apr 26, 2018 8:48 am

I agree, the Series 850 looks like a good match. Unfortunately, your size isn't available anymore. Window manufacturers have been phasing out this style and now they're starting to disappear.

Fortunately, our Series 795 works great as a replacement. Just make sure to replace both balances on either side of the window at the same time. That way, your window will function properly with its new hardware. You will also need a new pivot bar for the Series 795; we recommend the 26-021, or even the 26-366. You will also need to weigh your sash on a scale to confirm the best option.

Home Owner from Charleston SC

Apr 26, 2018 9:41 am

Do I also need to order a T-Lock Shoe?
I also need a recommendation for the locks on top of window!
Thanks so much

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Paul from SWISCO

Apr 30, 2018 1:20 pm

The Series 795 comes with a 1-1/4" wide T lock shoe. As long as yours is also 1-1/4" wide then this should work great.

As for the tilt latch your're showing, see our 26-243 and 26-244.

Home Owner from Massachusetts

Jul 1, 2020 5:15 pm

I think I have the same window type, and have the same issue as the home owner from SC, although there is no 'MW' marking on the catches on my window.

I enclose a picture of the balance mechanism from one of my windows.

Would you able to provide any advice for replacement parts, if I was to provide dimensions?

I note that you recommend channel replacement but I don't understand how these would be fitted to the frame

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Tom from SWISCO

Jul 6, 2020 1:58 pm

Since this old thread was made, we actually made a tutorial video that shows you how a Series 795 can replace a balance like yours. I highly recommend watching it, as it covers everything needed to finish the project.

Home Owner from Mount Pleasant SC

Aug 10, 2020 2:18 pm

Hello!
I have tried both pivot bars suggested and am having difficulty making either work, 26-021 & 26-366 were too short...I did not try to drill hole to accommodate. My current pivot is 3 1/8" long. I have purchased your 795 series (28") I hope you have another option for pivot. Thanks in advance!
I am showing you what each pivot looked like against what was in window.

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Tom from SWISCO

Aug 10, 2020 3:01 pm

Unfortunately, these pivot bars are our only option. There is a very good chance that you will need to drill a new hole in order to get the 26-366 to fit. I've had to do that myself in the past when encountered with this older style. I apologize for the inconvenience.

Home Owner from Callawassie Island, SC

Dec 8, 2020 1:21 pm

I just ordered replacement balances for a couple of our windows. The windows didn't open during a home inspection (the sale of our home) and the buyers wanted them fixed. A web search lead me to your site, and the video you posted showing how to replace the balances was perfect. I was even able to salvage a good balance from one window and transplant it to fix another.

Hope I don't need you in the future, but glad to know where you are!