channel balance 33 4 AN CALDWELL

Quick Learner from Trabuco Canyon

Jun 24, 2017 11:27 am

Hi, looking to replace some channel balances in the house.
current printed # is "33 4 AN CALDWELL"
These are 34" long from end to end. metal measured only.

Can you suggest a part#?

8 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jun 27, 2017 12:38 pm

I'm afraid I cannot identify what you have based on this information alone. I recommend that you look at our Channel Balance Home Page and follow the steps in order to find the Series that best matches what you have.

Quick Learner from Trabuco Canyon

Jun 27, 2017 1:33 pm

OK, you responded to a post earlier in the year to a customer wit 33 3 Caldwell and based on that response and my "33 4" markings, I am thinking S385-34 is the correct part. i have 1/2" width and 34" length. some more pics attached.
Let me know if you dont agree.
I will order after your confirmation.
Thanks a lot.
Andy

User submitted photos of a window balance.

Tom from SWISCO

Jun 29, 2017 2:26 pm

Based on your new pictures, I think the S385-34 is a good match, yes. However, for future reference, keep in mind that the stamp is not used for identifying the Series. It is only used to indicate the spring strength calibration.

Quick Learner from Trabuco Canyon

Jul 6, 2017 12:48 am

OK, I just weighed the sashes and am now more confused.
the current 33 4 balances are supporting a 33.3# window
the 33 3 balances are supporting a 17# window - these sashes go up easily but are difficult to lower and they fight to lock in place when closed.
Also some 33 3 balances support 23# windows that are identical looking to the 17# window in the same room!
So, unless you have any insight, I will likely go with S385-34 3340 and S385-34 3330 as these see to be the best crosses although the weights dont match.?

Thanks
\Andy

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 10, 2017 10:40 am

Hey, Andy. We have a chart on the S385-34 store page that tells you how much weight each option can support. We always recommend going with the sash weights 100% of the time, instead of going off the stamps alone; in some cases, the original installers don't use the right stamps in the first place, so there is always the chance that they may be wrong. The sash weight, however, never lies.

Quick Learner from Trabuco Canyon

Jul 10, 2017 10:58 am

Thanks for the response. I will go with weight then.
Question-does increasing the balance weight option typically make the window harder to shut completely?

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 10, 2017 11:52 am

Yes, you don't really want a balance that's stronger than you need.