Measuring Spiral Balance.

Question

Hi,

I'm preparing to order some spiral window balances.

The existing balances (some broken, some not broken) have vinyl tubes vs. aluminum. When measuring the tubes, I notice that they don't extend to the end of the spring.

I measure 35" from the top of the tube (Where it's screwed to the window) to the bottom of the tube (below that, an additional ~3/4" of the spring is exposed).

I measure *about* 36" from the top of the tube to the tip of the red bushing.

Would I order 35" or 36"?

Also, how would the operation of the window be affected if replaced a 36" balance with a 35"?

Thanks a bunch!
Craig

Tom · Accepted Answer

Thanks for contacting us, Craig. Based on your measurement, I think you might want to go with the 36" balance. We say to measure the tube for the sake of convenience, since most spiral balances have complete tubes. However it seems yours stops short of the colored bearing; in this instance, I think it's smarter to measure from the top of the tube to where the spring meets the bearing.