Spiral Balance Repair

Question

I found and read carefully your discussion with Quick Learner posted June 1, 2015. This is closest situation to mine.  I have GA single hung builder grade installed 1997 and balance has failed. His pics look like mine.  After screwing in the top - you say to let the spiral drop down.  Does gravity attract the downward drop or must I assist by turning the spiral? If it doesn't fall naturally - is this tell tale to purchase new balances? In any case, should the spiral pass easily by a sash clip? If so, how does it lock after the upward feed. Is there any way to see the bottom anatomy of the clip being engaged?

Paul · Accepted Answer

The spiral should twist easily in and out. Seeing as how this was installed in 1997, I would put some white grease on the spiral to help it twist smoothly.

With someone helping you, you will need to drop the new balance in from the top of the sash, screw it in at the top, then let the spiral drop down. You will then raise the sash and, while someone holds the sash in the open position, spin the spiral up to the bottom of the sash. Finally, with our 75-004 tool, give the balance about three turns to charge it and lock it to the end into the sash clip.

Let me know if you have any more questions.