Window replacement part

Thanks for posting. We don't have an exact match, but you might want to consider a Series 500 spiral balance used with a bracket like our 17-012. It's what I've used in the past for balances similar to yours. What do you think?

In 1957, wood windows were using a balance like our Series 500, which is why I recommend that. Keep in mind that the 5/8" (or 9/16") diameter is determined based on the outer tube, which your balances appear to lack. The spring itself may have a diameter of 3/8", but I think if they had their outer tube it would buff up to 5/8".

Aside from that, I don't think our Series 400 would have the strength necessary to hold up an old wood window.

Not a problem, glad I was able to help.

As for the option, the best way to determine what you need is to weigh your window sash. Now, that may be trickier than usual with your particular window. A lot of older non-tilt sashes were actually not meant to be repaired, and therefore cannot even be removed from the window! It's a frustrating and illogical design, but sometimes you just have to work with what you have.

There are a couple things you can do. You can first see if your sash can be removed easily. It's possible yours was meant to be repaired and you can weigh the sash headache-free.

On the chance that it's not, you can either have a handy person come out and disassemble the window for you (which I wouldn't recommend, of course), or you can simply place a scale on the sill and gently lower the sash onto it while it's still in the window. Don't get me wrong, this isn't an ideal solution, and won't give you the most accurate reading in the world. But hopefully it's enough to give you an idea of what the weight is and what color tip would be the best choice.