Non-tilt Milgard channel balance

Question

Hi,

I needed to replace one of the channel balances of my non-tilt window from Lowes (which seems to bear the Milgard emblem). I took the channel balance (1/2" x27") out, the string to the pulley is broken. My questions is, my channel balance looks like Series 380 and 385 as posted on you web, I would like to know:

1. What's the difference between the 15-004 and the 15-005 shoe?

2. Does one usually replace both sides at the same time?

Thanks!

Regards,
-matt

Paul · Accepted Answer

Thanks for posting! The difference between the Series 380 and Series 385 channel balances can be found in their shoes. Please take a look at our 15-004 and 15-005 channel balance shoes, and note their depths. As you can see, they are 1-3/32" deep and 1" deep, respectively. Which one more closely matches your own bottom attachment?

As for your second question, I believe that you should replace both. This will ensure that tension will be the same on either side of the sash. Plus, you can always save the old undamaged balance for when another sash balance goes.