Window Balances

Question

We have vinyl windows with the name ALUMAX on the latch. The balances are shot and the old ones have no color code that relates to your chart. I think we will need the 600 series. The old balance measures 25" long and the diameter measures 1/2". Would this be your 5/8"? Will I need to weigh the sash or can you tell by the attached balance picture what I need? The pivots appear to be good or should I replace them anyway?

Thanks for your help.

Rodger

User submitted photos of window hardware.

Tom · Accepted Answer

Can you confirm the diameter of the tube? There is no balance I know of that has a 1/2" tube. I'm pretty sure it will either be 3/8" or 5/8". It could even be 9/16", but that is considered 5/8" in the trade anyway. Can you also tell me what the weight of the window sash is? That's the only way to determine what color tip you need. Finally, when measuring the balance length, make sure that you're only measuring the tube.