Window balance

A contractor from Oregon says:
I have an old window which does not have counter weights and no pocket in which to install them. The window is 36"w x 31 7/8"h and is 1 1/2" thick. It weighs 27 lb.
I want to install something to counter balance the weight of the window.
Would a spiral balance or channel balance be suitable? If so can you suggest a suitable product?

Thanks,
Michael
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
Hey, Michael. Is this a wood window? If so, you may be able to use our Series 500 spiral balance along with a bracket like our 17-012. We've been using this balance for older wood windows for decades. Based on your window size and weight, I would recommend S500-30, which is 30" long, and a Blue Tip color option for sashes weighing 21 through 31 pounds. You will also need a 75-004 tool to install. Here is the process we recommend:

First, you want to drop them down either side of the sash from the top. Use a screw like our 33-017 to attach the balance tubes at the top, then have someone hold the sash up while you attach the 17-012 bracket on bottom with a screw like our 33-090, while the U-shape opening corrals the spiral. With your finger, bring the spiral up to the bracket and attach the 75-004 tool to its tip, then turn the spiral clock wise three times. Finally, hook it to the fork of the 17-012 bracket. Repeat this for the the other side. If the sash creeps down, give the spiral another turn or two.
A contractor from Oregon says:
OK Paul. Thanks for the info. I will order the parts and give it a go. I got the height and width of the window reversed when I wrote the original post. The side is actually 35.5". Should I order a 35" balance?

Yes, it is a wood window. The sash doesn't have any groove or channel to take the balance, so I guess I will need to route one in each side. Will a 5/8" router bit be sufficient?

Thanks again,
Michael
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
Sure, Michael, I'm happy to help. With this new info in mind, I recommend an S500-35 red tip balance. A 5/8" router will certainly work for the balance pocket.
A contractor from Oregon says:
I have completed this project and it went well. The 5/8 channel routed into the window sash worked smoothly and the window is now moving up and down with ease and remaining in place when partly open. The only variation I made in your instructions was that I needed to give the spiral about twelve turns to get enough tension to hold the weight.

Thanks to you and Swisco for excellent service and advice.
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Paul from SWISCO responded:
It was our pleasure. We appreciate your business, it means a lot to us. If you ever need anything else, we're always here to help.
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