for a Spiral Balance window- What is the "pivot shoe"

Questions: 1) What is the "pivot shoe"? 2) is it a separate item that can be purchased from Swisco? 3) If answer to #2 is YES, what is the appropriate part number, and price per each. 4) When purchasing the correct "pivot shoes" for a standard aluminum frame window mounted vertically with moveable window in the lower pane position (moving up to open) is there a distinction between the pivot shoe to be installed on the right side vs Left side? 5) if answer to #4 is YES, what are the correct part numbers for ordering both right and a left shoes?



Hello! Thanks for posting. The pivot shoe is a rectangular piece of plastic that connects the spiral balance to the sash. The bottom tip of the Series 900 clips into it, and then the shoe connects to the sash via a pivot bar. It serves the dual purpose of allowing the sash to tilt in for cleaning and removal.
As for which pivot bar to go with, I have no idea. The Series 900 is compatible with about a million different types. It's not possible for me to make a recommendation without seeing the original. I'm not even sure if you have one since you said that this is an aluminum window, which aren't typically tilt type. These are almost always non-tilt. Considering that, and considering you don't know what a pivot shoe is to begin with, there's a good chance you're looking at the wrong hardware. The pivot shoe should be an evident and integral part of your window setup. Are you sure the Series 900 is what you have?
If you have any doubts, you can show me some photos of your balance so that I can review what you have and make a judgement. Please note however that I would need to see an undamaged version. If any parts of it are rusted off and missing, I can't help.