Spiral Balance Length

Question

Are the upper and lower window spiral balances the same length?  At some point the balances for the bottom window were removed and discarded.  The top window balances are 18" long with an orange tip.  Also, there is a square hole in the vinyl where the balance should attach to the window frame.  See pic.  Apparently, there was a plastic clip that snapped into the square hole which acts as an anchor point for the balance screw.  Does this clip need to be replaced, assuming that they are available?  Could I use a longer screw and drive it further into the jam?  Thank you for all your help.

Paul · Accepted Answer

Hello,

The 26-200 balance screw plug goes into the square cut out in your window. Normally, the difference between a top sash and bottom sash balance lengths of a vinyl window are 3". If your top balance is using an S600-18" spiral balance, you bottom balance should use a S600-21". Thank you!