Ribbons aren't working, would like to replace if possible

Home Owner from Kentucky

May 14, 2017 12:23 pm

Hello, I have 3 windows roughly the same size that have all stopped working. The common part that is failing is the ribbon balance. One window the balances have snapped, and the others are bending when I try to raise the window up.

I took a picture of the parts still installed, but can remove them if need be.

Thank you for your time, and sorry if I got any terms wrong.

-Jeff

7 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

May 18, 2017 12:17 pm

The hardware you're looking for is known as a coil balance system. See our 15-111 pivot shoe and Series 160 spring, I think these can work for you. You'll need the number printed on the old springs to determine the best option.

Home Owner from Louisville KY

May 23, 2017 8:34 pm

I was able to get a coil off and these numbers are on there:

5 64" #5.5 64" 110397

I have 2 coils linked, should I order 2 of the 5.5lb 32in series 160?

Tom from SWISCO

May 25, 2017 2:15 pm

Yes, if your old coil springs were stamped with "5.5" then I'd recommend our S160-5.

Home Owner from Louisville, Ky

Jun 5, 2017 7:07 am

I asked on the discussion if I could link 2 32" coils because the original was a 64". The travel length is too short with the 32" coils. You don't sell a 64" coil. Could I modify my window to accept the 32" coils? If so that would be great, but otherwise I would like to return the coils. Thank you for your time.

Tom from SWISCO

Jun 5, 2017 11:20 am

You could install the balance springs lower in the jamb track, yes. However, you'd need to make sure that they don't interfere with the tilt latches. The last thing you want is to install the balances halfway down the frame only to find out the tilt latches bump into them when you try to operate the window. I would play around with how they're positioned to be sure it will work.

Home Owner from Louisville, KY

Jun 6, 2017 7:42 am

I was able to install the new balances lower on the window, and everything works beautifully now. Thank you for saving me a whole lot of money!