Series Mark 40 ANSI/AAMA 101-88 MST4653/3953 Channel Balance ID Question

Quick Learner from Florida
Hello.
One of my windows was having trouble opening and closing and so I opened it up. One of the channel balances had a broken reel system and I was trying to find a replacement balance. I searched online which lead me here. I am unsure of what model this channel balance actually is. It is 25in long (measured from the metal ends, not the plastic parts) and around half-an-inch width. I thought it might be a Series 380 or 385 channel balance but the position of the spring and the different looking attachments made me re-consider. The stamp has the number 2430 followed by "B.S.I". Any help in identifying what type of channel balance it is would be appreciated. I have more pictures of it if those are necessary.
Thanks.
5 user uploaded images
4 Replies
Lauren
Lauren from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Hello, thank you for posting,

It appears you have either our Series 351, with a 15-002 bottom attachment, or Series 390, with a 15-001 bottom attachment. Take a look and measure the image below to determine which balance you'll need. 

You will need a 25" balance with a 2430 stamp option. Please review and let us know if you have any additional questions. 

Comparison of the S351 and S390 balance shoes.
Comparison of the S351 and S390 balance shoes.

Quick Learner from Florida
Thank you for the information. I was looking at both the Series 351 and Series 390 but I hesitated as the length between the top of the channel balance and the spring was different in my channel balance compared to either the Series 351 or Series 390. My channel balance has a 2-1/8" (two and 1-eighth inch) length between the top of the metal and the spring's hook. The pictures for both the Series 351 and Series 390 make it look like there is a shorter distance between metal top and where the spring latches on. Is this just a trick of how the display pictures are? Or just a slight difference in manufacturing? The windows were installed in 1991 so I imagine there would be some differences.
On a similar note, my channel balance's foot is barely longer than 1" (one inch). I'm leaning towards it being a 15-002 since it is no where close to being even 1/16" (one-sixteenth) of an inch much less than 1/8" (one-eighth) of an inch.
Overall, I think the Series 351 is the best fit. Unless any of the additional pictures or the spring length issue implies that I have an entirely different type.
Thanks.

4 user uploaded images
Lauren
Lauren from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Thank you for the additional information.

If the depth of the shoe matches up best to the 1" verses the 1-1/8" measurement, the Series 351 would be the best option for your window. You do not need to worry about the distance of the spring. Like you mentioned, your original balances could have been manufactured by a different company. 

Your original balance is stamped with a 2430 that indicates your window sash weighs between 15 to 19 lb. As long as your sash is in that range, the S351-25 with a 2430 will support the window.

Please let me know if you have any additional questions! 

Comparison of the S351 and S390 balance shoes.
Comparison of the S351 and S390 balance shoes.

Reply to Thread
Current Photos:
Related Products
Related Videos
Related Guides