Need replacement window balances for an Alcoa single pane tilt window

Home Owner from Woodbridge, Virginia

Dec 18, 2013 9:35 pm

The spring on one side broke and as a result I need to replace both window balances. My house is 19 years old and these are the original windows. There was a plastic covering over the balance but it became brittle and disintegrated. I have attached photos of the tip (blue), total length, width opposite end, and the channel the balance goes in. Can you help me identify the parts?

Thank you.

Ken

User submitted photos of a window balance.

6 Replies

Paul from SWISCO

Dec 19, 2013 3:23 pm

Thanks for posting, Ken. I recommend you look at our Series 600 spiral balance. Carefully compare it to your hardware and let me know if you agree.

Home Owner from Woodbridge, VA

Dec 20, 2013 8:26 am

Thanks, I was looking at the 600 series before I sent in my question. What other parts will I need? My plan is to order two spiral balances and the charging tool. Do you recommend anything else? My measurement should be from just above the blue cap to the end of the tube, correct? This measures 29 9/16", what size should I order?

Thanks,
Ken

Tom from SWISCO

Dec 20, 2013 10:28 am

The 75-006 is the charging tool, yes. I'm not sure what other hardware you will need. Give the pivot shoe and pivot bar a look and see what condition they're in. If they look good, there's no reason to replace them.

You measure the length of a spiral balance based on just the tube. You do not count the color tip or the spiral's protrusions in your measurements. Check out the video below to see how to install this type of hardware.

Home Owner

Dec 20, 2013 10:47 am

I am assuming I should order the 30" balance since the measurement is 29 9/16".

Paul from SWISCO

Dec 23, 2013 9:28 am

Yes, if your tube is about 29-9/16" then I think the 30" long balance is best.