custom length balance

Contractor from Walnut Creek

Jun 27, 2019 6:19 pm

I need to replace 2 pair of balances from Certainteed vinyl windows. They are 1/2" channels, non-tilt, stamped 27 4 BSI, but the metal channels are 27-1/2" long. The end fittings are similar to your series 385 balances. Can you provide me with 4 balances with 27.5" channels?

10 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 2, 2019 2:28 pm

Sure, we should be able to do this. Just to be sure we get you the right hardware, can you confirm that the metal channel is precisely 27-1/2" long? I want to be sure it's not 27-5/8" instead. Can you also show me photos of the top and bottom nylon fittings? Thanks!

Contractor from Walnut Creek

Jul 2, 2019 4:04 pm

Great, thanks for the reply. The channel is exactly 27-1/2" long, photos are attached. the bottom fitting is 1-1/16" deep.

3 user uploaded images

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 3, 2019 10:59 am

Ah, I thought this might be the case. This is a unique type of balance that will have to be a special order. You'll note that the pulley wheel is built into the shoe itself, which indicates extra travel length in the cord. None of our standard balances will have the same travel.

I want to mention that these are only made in 27-5/8". They never made this in 27-1/2". I would triple check the length of the metal channel to be sure, since this is the only size we can supply in this style.

In the meantime, I'll email you an order link and price quote for 2 of these.

Contractor from Walnut Creek

Jul 3, 2019 12:12 pm

Thank you. If 27-5/8 is all you can get, that should work. Here's some more photos...it's most definitely 27-1/2"! I've been running a tape measure for a few decades :)

Yes, the pulleys are built in to the shoe, and the upper end of the spring is attached directly to the upper guide instead of a rivet. Again, thanks for your expert help!

3 user uploaded images

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 3, 2019 1:16 pm

Not a problem! That does look like it's right on the line. 27-5/8" is the closest we can provide, though. If it doesn't work then let me know and we can try to figure it out!

Thanks for considering us and please let me know if you have any other questions otherwise.

Contractor from Walnut Creek

Jul 3, 2019 5:36 pm

The 27-5/8" length will work. I'd like to go ahead and order 4 of these, please revise the order link/price quote to quantity 4. Thanks!

Tom from SWISCO

Jul 5, 2019 1:02 pm

Sure, I'll adjust the quantity and send you a new link right now.

Contractor from Walnut Creek

Aug 27, 2019 7:54 pm

Installed the 4 balances today--they worked well. However, the homeowner found 1 more window with missing balances so will need to order another pair, exactly the same specs as before. Please send me an order link and price quote for 2 of these.

Tom from SWISCO

Sep 3, 2019 7:30 am

Thanks for writing back to us, and glad the balances worked out for you. Sure, no problem--I'm sending you another email with a custom link to order (2) more of the exact same balances. If you need anything else, just ask. Thanks!