Need to replace bent pivot bar

Question

Hello,

I need to replace a bent pivot bar for the bottom sash of a double-hung window, please. I have looked online at the Swisco parts inventory and cannot find a suitable replacement. Attached is an image with written dimensions for a healthy pivot bar that is not broken or bent.

Also, as seen in one of the images, one of the coil housing pivot boxes has part of its plastic cover missing. Given that it would be a fair amount of effort to cut out a large enough opening in the vinyl channel above the window to remove all three coil boxes, is the current status a strong concern in terms of structural integrity? Is it imperative that the broken plastic coil box be replaced, or is it safe to use the window as it is?

This window was installed in my home by Accent Windows a decade ago in metro Denver, CO. Unfortunately, the company has long gone out of business since then.

I look forward to your response.

Thank you for your assistance.

Tom · Accepted Answer

Seeing as the tip of the pivot bar that fits in your pivot shoe needs to be 5/16" wide by 3/16" high, we believe our 26-089 will work for your sash as a replacement. The length shouldn't be a problem with your type of sash. The two holes seem to line up to your old pivot bar.

As for the gap in your coil balance system, I think you'll be fine for the near future. You should probably replace that shoe at some point simply because that kind of damage can get worse the more you operate the window, but it's not exactly an immediate issue. Those housings are mostly just there to keep the coil springs steady in the track. It looks like much of your shoe housing is still intact, at least enough to continue to keep the spring steady, but there's no telling how long that will last. If you ever do want to replace it, I recommend our 15-087.