Replacement Spiral Balance

Question

My house was built in 1992 and has Alco Vinyl windows. I have several that need spiral balance replaced. I followed you directions to determine the length and size of the replacement balance. Here is what I ordered:

(2) S900-29 : 29" Series 900 Spiral Balance
(1) 75-033 : Charging Tool for Tilt Windows
(10) 26-200 : Balance Screw Plug

The balance would not fit into window channel as the overall diameter is 1/2" with the metal housing. I am including pictures of the shoe and Window channel measurement so you can see my issue. If try and install it damages the balance. The spiral balance that Alco used was incased in thin plastic covering that would compress to fit into the channel. Also as you can see for the pictures when the opening in the shoe is small so with trying to even get the spiral connect to the shoe under tension is almost impossible. I know they make spreader to widen the channel to install the shoe but I do believe these were designed to install the balance. I like to know if you have any products or advice that would help me repair the window without replacing the window.

Thanks for any help you can provide.

Paul · Accepted Answer

This is weird. Can you confirm the diameter of the new balance? You say it is 1/2", but they actually don't make balances in that size. Our Series 900 has a tube diameter of 3/8", which is the smallest we have. Could I see a few pictures of the new balance next to the old balance? That will help us come up with a possible solution.