Milgard balance ID help

Question

Hello,
I'm working on a Milgard vinyl, non-tilt-out, single-hung window, 10-15 years old, that needs balances. The problem is, the original balances are gone. The overall window dimensions are 44 3/8" x 64 1/2", the sash is 42 3/4" x 32", 1 5/8" thick, the channel is 5/8". It is glazed with a 1/8" over 1/8 IGU. We tried 2830's that were suggested by someone else, but they don't feel right and keep popping off. Is there a way to identify exactly what should be in there?
Thank you for any help you can give,
Connie

Tom · Accepted Answer

Without the original balances handy, it will be hard to know what Series you need. You see, the stamp you mentioned (2830) only signifies how long the metal channel is and how strong the springs are. Plus, you said that the 2830 didn't work well, so there's a good chance that's not even right. The matter of the nylon attachments, the combination of which makes up the Series, is still an unknown factor. There is no information on the window that could tell us what Series you need. The only way to know for sure is to compare with the old balance.

There is one solution you could consider, but I cannot guarantee that it will work. Our Series 385 is a popular combination of nylon attachments used by many window brands. You could see if this works as-is, but if it doesn't you can always try to alter it by shaving down the bottom shoe or clipping off the wings, as necessary. It's not the most elegant solution but it may be your best bet.

As for the appropriate length and spring strength, if you tell me the height of the visible glass (for the sash these balances support, that is) and the weight of the sash (determined by placing it on a scale), I can make a recommendation.