Need help identifying part, reason for damage, and way to prevent reoccurrence

My questions are: Which balance part number do I need to replace this window (there are several with the number 3140)? What might have caused the "catching" of the window in the first place (we bought the house last year, it's 17 years old and we're the second owners)? Will moving the balance connection to the lower hole solve the problem, or should the sash be repaired/replaced (I don't want to have to go through this again in a couple of years)?
We have several windows in our house with varying issues, but most appear to be balance related. They were originally Empire Pacific Windows and had a lifetime warranty, but we aren't the original owners, so we can't reach out for assistance through them. I appreciate your help.



Hello,
We'd be happy to help but we would need to see both fittings and the pulley clip of an undamaged balance fully removed from the window to confirm the correct replacement. In the meantime, I am going to forward your photos to one of our senior experts to see what they would recommend regarding the damage to your window frame. Thank you!



First, I would recommend removing the bottom sash to check if the top sash guides are broken or missing. Pacific Windows normally use the 18-171 sash guide. Second, you'll need to repair the damaged hole for the balance hook to connect to the window track. At that point, you can install the 16-004 balance retainer. Normally these fittings are rivetted to the frame but since you have a vinyl frame, we suggest purchasing a #8 Truss head screw long enough to go through the vinyl frame and into the wood frame for additional support.
As Casey mentioned, we can't confirm the correct balance replacement while yours is still installed. With that being said, you can start by reviewing the S350-32 with 3140 strength options since this was the balance most commonly used in your windows. Take a look and see what you think.



