Hello,
I am trying to figure out which window balance to purchase and do not want to purchase the wrong one. I think that I have narrowed it down between the series 380 or 385. The problem is I don't know which one of those is correct. Please if you could help me order the right one I do not know how to tell the differences. Thank you!!
Window Balance
Quick Learner from
Dec 23, 2023 2:17 pm
5 user uploaded images
4 Replies
Bob from SWISCO
Dec 23, 2023 7:16 pm
Hello there. I agree, this looks like either a Series 380 or Series 385. The difference between these two channel balances is the depth of the bottom nylon shoe, or the measurement from 'heel-to-toe' on the shoe. See the illustration below for reference. Measure the depth of your old balance's shoe to determine which matches best.
Comparison of the S378, S380 and S385 balance shoes.
See the video below, which further clarifies identifying a channel balance's length and stamp option. Let me know if you have further questions.
Quick Learner from Florida
Jan 2, 2024 8:58 am
Thanks for the reply,
After measuring I ordered the S380, as the bottom shoe depth was around an inch, not quite there so I knew it definitely was not the larger of the 2 options. I just received my window balances and cannot seem to install them because I think that the bottom shoe is still too large, the window sash will not go in while the balances are inside the window. I do not see a window balance on your website that seems to have the same top shoe and a smaller bottom shoe like the S380 or S385, do you think there is one that matches this old window balance in the picture below? The one labeled "new" is the S380.
After measuring I ordered the S380, as the bottom shoe depth was around an inch, not quite there so I knew it definitely was not the larger of the 2 options. I just received my window balances and cannot seem to install them because I think that the bottom shoe is still too large, the window sash will not go in while the balances are inside the window. I do not see a window balance on your website that seems to have the same top shoe and a smaller bottom shoe like the S380 or S385, do you think there is one that matches this old window balance in the picture below? The one labeled "new" is the S380.
1 user uploaded image
Bob from SWISCO
Jan 2, 2024 2:23 pm
Thanks for getting back to us. I'm sorry to hear that you're having trouble with this one.
There is one older, somewhat more uncommon configuration that used a 7/8" deep shoe. See our 15-029. We can provide a balance with this component, but it will have to be a custom order since it's not a stock Series.
Another options that you can try is to use a utility knife to shave the depth of your shoe down to size. I've done it myself in a pinch and I find it works well, but any product altered in that way cannot be returned for a refund. Just something to keep in mind; custom balances also cannot be returned for a refund, so it's really up to you which way you want to go. I'm happy to set you up with a custom order, just let me know.
One last note: if you do decide to trim the bottom shoe down, make sure to wear protective gloves just to be safe.
Related Products
Related Videos
Related Guides
