Questions Regarding Spiral Balance Hardware

A handy person from NY says:
Good Morning.

Two questions:

1- It is obvious that my pivot shoes are broken, but how do I know its time to replace the spiral balance rods?

2-Is it advisable to lubricant the spiral balances and/or in the pivot shoe slots? If, yes, what is the best lube?



Thanks
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Tom from SWISCO responded:

Hello! You'll know when spiral balances are ready for replacement when they no longer support the weight of the sash. Even then, you still may be able to give them a few years of life by charging them a couple times using a tool like our 75-006, but if that doesn't make a difference then you know it's time to get new ones.

Basically, the crux of when to replace a spiral balance is when its spring has lost its tension. It takes a little bit of trial and error to determine that, but it should be self-evident.

As for lubrication, I always recommend using a silicone spray in the track. Just make sure to clean it first. I like silicone better than oil because it's less prone to collecting dirt and stuff from outside.

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