Old Andersen double-hung window balancer

Handy Person from Corvallis, Oregon

Sep 6, 2025 6:01 pm

Hi, this is the old style Andersen window balancer. I think they are from the mid-1960's. The only numbers are on the bottom right corner of the opposite side from the strings/plugs. From the left these are the letters/numbers stamped into the balancer chassis: EE 5 27 124 I don't see any other numbers anywhere on the balancer. This is the old style balancer that doesn't have the tabs on the "inside" side of the top of the window opening when installed. The lower sash measures 36" wide X 25.5" tall. Just the glass is 32.5" wide X 21.5 tall. I'd be looking for a pair of these even though the other side is still intact. Thanks!

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6 Replies

Bob from SWISCO

Sep 8, 2025 3:10 am

Thanks for posting. See the newer style 24-531. This will replace old Andersen balances with the stamp '531'. Let me know if you have further questions.

Handy Person from Corvallis, Oregon

Sep 8, 2025 12:09 pm

Hi Bob, another Bob here! Thanks for the info on the balancer. Since I sent my request, I found a "3042" stamp on the side of the lower sash. Wouldn't that require a different sized balancer? It seems that the balancer that was in the head jamb is not matching the window sash. Am I wrong? So, should I get the balancer that is the same as the original, or the one that "should" be with this sash? Thanks again!

Bob in Oregon

Bob from SWISCO

Sep 16, 2025 11:23 am

Hello, Bob! First, I want to apologize; I misspoke in my previous response. While the 24-531 does replace balances with the 531 stamp, that's not relevant to you. What I meant to say is that it's designed to replace balances with the 527 stamp, which is what you have. Sorry for the confusion!

Regarding the stamp on the sash, I don't believe that's relevant to IDing the balance. What makes you suspect that the original 527 stamp balance is incorrect? Have these sashes been difficult to operate? We usually stick as close to the original hardware as we can unless there is good reason to believe that the installers put in the wrong parts to begin with.

Handy Person from Corvallis, Oregon

Sep 16, 2025 12:30 pm

Hi Bob, thanks for the additional info. As best I can tell, this is the original balancer for the window. It always worked well so I have no desire to monkey around with a new one. The stamp on the sash just threw me for a loop. Thanks for explaining. I have ordered a pair of the balancers you suggested from you guys. I appreciate the hand holding!
Thanks,
Bob in Corvallis, OR

Bob from SWISCO

Sep 16, 2025 1:25 pm

Awesome, glad to hear it! Sorry again for the confusion and thanks so much for the business. We're always here to help if you had any follow up questions.