Metal bracket for Series 400 balance

Handy Person from Frisco TX

Feb 22, 2017 5:06 pm

I need to replace two spiral balances in a non-tilting aluminum window about 20 years old. I have identified the part needed as S400-30 green.
However one of the lower brackets is broken, half of it fell out of channel during my investigation.
I see that you sell brackets but they don't seem to be accessible for replacement.
Question. Assuming that bracket cannot be replaced, how well would the window work with only one balance?
We are tired of using wooden props.

6 Replies

Paul from SWISCO

Feb 28, 2017 12:01 pm

I feel your frustration. The window manufacturer made your sashes specifically so that they cannot be removed, so you can't get to the side of the sash to replace the broken bracket. We do have a bracket, the 17-031, that can be screwed on the bottom of the sash that works with Series 400 balance. Could this work for you?

Quick Learner from Frisco TX

Mar 3, 2017 3:29 pm

Looks like this will work. I will need to make a small revision to the frame. Will send results later

Quick Learner

Mar 18, 2017 3:25 pm

Installed an aluminum channel in the window sash and attached the bracket.
Your installation video says to charge the balance using the tool turning 2-3 turns. I have tried 2, 4 and 6 turns and the window only holds half open.
Do I continue with more turns or will I damage the balances?

Paul from SWISCO

Mar 24, 2017 11:34 am

You shouldn't go any more than that. Even 6 may be a lot. When charging, make sure someone is holding the sash up for you as high as they can. When you charge the spiral, make sure it is as close to the tube as you can comfortably get. You want as much of the spiral in the tube when you turn it.

Quick Learner from Frisco TX

Mar 25, 2017 4:46 pm

Success. Using a hint from another email from Swisco I found that the sash weighed 23-26 pounds which showed that I was using the correct replacement part.
However it took many more turns than noted with the charger to get the window to stay wide open.
If the balances fail from too much tension I will replace them with some from a window we never use.
Thanks for the help.