Dave Sr. from SWISCO responded:
August 17, 2015
Hey, thanks for posting. Yes, the first two digits of the stamp are typically one less than the length. As for the top sash guides, we always suggest replacing broken hardware with exactly what was installed originally, if they are available. Since there are different balance Series used in different windows, it's logical to assume that each window was made by a different company, which would also mean they'd use different top sash guides. Could you use the same top sash guides for all windows? I can only say "maybe." Some top sash guides are different than others for good reason, and it depends more on the sash than the balance itself. Personally, I would just stick with what the installers used, because you never know when they had a good reason for using the hardware they chose. That way no guess work is involved.
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
August 18, 2015
I wouldn't worry about the seams. Every manufacturer has a small difference in the way they design the metal channels, such as seams or hemmed edges, but they all work the same. The only thing you need to be concerned about is the Series, length, and spring strength.
The tabs are meant to keep the balance stable in the jamb tracks, yes. |