Need proper parts to repair my loose windows

Question

Our 15-year old double hung upper channel balance ENDS look like this? And windows are very loose in frame--easy to jimmy window locks to open from outside. Is this really the right part? It's screwed in barely half-way up the upper window. Need proper parts so I can secure our dozen windows. Someone told me this part may? Actually be a piece used for stabilization during shipping? I'm having security issues. Want windows to lock snuggly where the locks can't be jimmied open. Thank you!!!! Raleigh NC

User submitted photos of window hardware.

Tom · Accepted Answer

I'm not sure what the problem may be. The part you're showing looks like our 16-024, which is a mounting bracket for coil balances, not channel balances. I don't know what you mean when you say it's used for stabilization during shipping, this part has nothing to do with that. It's what keeps the coil balances attached to the window. Is it possible that the spring isn't attached to this bracket on the other side? That might account for why it's loose.

You also say that the window is easy to jimmy. I would check your locks to make sure they're functioning. I can't think of many other reasons why the sash would be loose in the frame. Could it be the windows were installed improperly? Do you have an identical window in the house that's working fine, or is this happening for all your windows?