Replacing spiral balance

Question

I have GA windows circa 1998.  I am having trouble hooking the new spiral balance on or into the end cap.  You cannot take sash apart.  This is what I am dealing with (please check attached photo)

Tom · Accepted Answer

Yep, looks like you have a builder's grade window. It's not just that these windows aren't meant to be removed, they're not meant to be repaired in any way. The original manufacturers would rather you just buy a new window.

That's not necessary, of course, but it does mean that any repairs you attempt will be frustrating. There's no real trick to getting the balance to hook into that clip. You have to use a charging tool like our 75-005 and have someone hold the window up while you try to snap the tip of the balance in place. It just takes a lot of patience and squinting.