Trying to identify the correct window balance cap

Home Owner from Mountain View, CA
Hi there! I'm trying to identify the correct window channel balance cap for a replacement order. I have two different window balances on two different windows that need replacement... one has a 19-005 top cap and the other a 19-002 top cap. I'm essentially stuck trying to figure out whether they have a 15-004 bottom cap or a 15-005. I can't tell the difference between these two on your site, and I don't want to order the wrong one.

Moreover, you only have the combination of 19-002 and 15-004 caps available on the same balance on your site. Would you be able to help? I'm attaching images of the problem end cap.

One of the balaneces has the markings 2790 35 BSI. The other states 2740 BSI. The 2740 balance seems to be either Series 380 or 385 by your terms. The other balance seems to be Series 350. All are 1/2". Would you be able to help me identify the correct end caps/balances?

Finally, I wanted to get your opinion as to whether I should get springs with less tension (e.g. 2780 to replace 2790, and 2730 to replace 2740). Our windows are 26 years old double pane, and they are hard to open/close. I was wondering if getting the new balances and the softer springs would make it easier to close the windows and if that's recommended.

Thanks a lot!
Tim
A customer submitted photo of channel balance attachments.
6 Replies
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Thanks for posting! The difference between the 15-004 and 15-005 is actually fairly simple. Please look at the dimensions of both on their respective product pages. As you can see, the 15-004 is 1-3/32" deep, while the 15-005 is just 1" deep. This may not seem like much of a difference, but it could be important to how your balance operates. Which one more closely matches the dimensions of your own shoe?

As for a balance with a winged bottom attachment and non-winged top attachment, it will have to be custom made for you. Just let me know which bottom attachment you have, as well as the length of your metal channel and the respective stamp, and I would be more than happy to get you set up!

As for the spring strength, we always recommend that you replace your window balances with what was installed in your window originally. You should stick with your original stamps, just in case. If they were hard to open or close, they may have just been old and worn down.

So, to sum it up, I just need to know the following details for each of your balances, and I will be able to help you out: the number for the top and bottom attachment, the length of the metal channel, and the stamp number.

I hope this information has helped you.
Home Owner from Mountain View, CA
Thank you, Paul!
My caps are 1-2/32" deep, so it sounds like it's closer to the 1-3/32", should I go for that one (15-004)?

Here are the details of the two types of balances that I have:
1)
number for the top and bottom attachment: top 19-005, bottom 15-004 (depending on above question this may be 15-005)
length of the metal channel: 28"
stamp number: 2740

2)
number for the top and bottom attachment: top 19-002, bottom 15-004 (depending on above question this may be 15-005)
length of the metal channel: 28"
stamp number: 2790

Looks like I should be able to go with Series 350 and 385.

Thanks!
Tim
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Thank you for the information! I believe you are correct; you most likely have the 15-004.

For the first balance, please take a look at our S385-28 with a 2740 stamp option.

For the second balance, I may need you to do a bit more work. Because of the stamp, it may have to be custom made, as we do not have any stamp that ends in 90. We will need to know the weight of the sash those balances go into in order to determine the appropriate stamp option for you.
Home Owner from Mountain View, CA
Paul, thank you! I will order the S385-28s for one set.
The weight of the sash for the other is 28.4 LBs.
Could you please let me know what is the best way to place the order for all of them, and what the cost will come out to?
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Thank you for the information. I have good news for you! We do have a stamp option for the Series 350 that can work with your sash weight. Please take a look at our S350-28 with a 2750 stamp option. This balance can carry a sash weight range of 26 through 30 lbs.

Keep in mind that this information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.

You can place an order for both types of channel balances at the same time, without having to make a custom order.
Reply to Thread
Current Photos:
Related Products
Related Videos
Related Guides