Replacing coil/shoe balancers tilt-out lower sash.

Question

I earlier found, in your Q/A, a post from 2011 that describes our same problem, but cannot reference it this evening. Problem is with the lower sash, 25"Hx31"W, approx. 15lbs, tilt-out. Photo 4 shows broken coil and shoe.  Photo 3 shows screw that won't come out, obstructing track to the top where the cut-out is. I believe it has something to do with tightening the whole window, but left is completely loose, appears to have lost a bushing or something when we tried unscrewing it. Right side screw OK. Window is tight, so no biggie, I think. Photo 2 is another screw/something above screws #1, would obstruct, also.  Also, Photo 1 shows two stops at bottom of upper sash that need to be replaced. Since I cannot get to cut-out, I assume I would use a pair of jamb spreaders, which you sell. The jambs are vinyl, not metal, I presume?  They look like it.  Please advise on correct parts, and some guidance re: DIY.  Myself handy, husband not so much, but willing assistant.  Thank you for your kind attention.

Paul · Accepted Answer

Hello,

In the first photo marked "Housing Pivot", you show the 15-087 coil pivot and S180-08 coil spring that should be inside the 15-087 tandem housing. The second photo marked "Coil" is the adjusting screw you are having a problem with. Since you can't turn the screw in or out of the track, place the slotted screwdriver tip on the screw and try tapping it in with a hammer to clear a path in the track. The photo marked "Bracket" is the 16-024, which connects to the S180-08 coil spring. You should be able to remove these screws to make a clear path for the coil housing to pass to the track cut-out. Thanks for posting.