Spiral Balance Repair

Home Owner from Seattle, WA
Hello Paul from SWISCO,

We recently moved to our current home and I would like to repair a spiral window balance in a aluminum frame, non-tilt 28 inch high (closer to 28 5/16) window.

From your excellent guidance to others, I believe I have determined we need two red-tipped 28inch spiral window balances. What I am struggling to determine is how to free the one currently in place spiral balance. It seems to be attached internally. Its unclear what I need to remove it and what other parts I may need. I am attaching photos in the hopes that it will help to answer my questions.

Specifically, do I need other parts? And what instrument do I need to remove the spiral balance?

thanks so much for your consideration of this question.
Best,
Gwen
5 user uploaded images
2 Replies
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Hello, Gwen. It looks like your balance hooks to the bottom of the sash. I can just about make the hook out in your final picture, clamped to the frame at the very end. The way to disconnect this is to use a tool like our 75-005 (or anything with a hook, really) to hook into a hole that's punched at the very bottom most tip of the spiral rod itself. You can then pull down to unhook the balance and pull it up and out from the top of the sash.

I do have some bad news for you, however, which is that this type of balance is an old, old style. There were several different kinds made but all are discontinued and we no longer sell them. Ultimately, you may want to see if you can get in touch with a local professional who is familiar with these windows who can point you in the right direction, ideally a shop in your neighborhood who still sells them.

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