Original 1940s Spiral Balance

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Quick Learner from Lafayette LA

Apr 30, 2018 11:11 am

old part, original balance from about 1940 I think. Photos are from a different window
thanks

2 user uploaded images

14 Replies

Tom from SWISCO

May 3, 2018 2:50 pm

Hi- thanks so much for posting!

Based on your photos, I would recommend our Series 500 spiral balance and our 17-012 bracket.

We've been using this combination of hardware for wood windows like this for the better part of a century so you should have no trouble.

Get back to us if you have any questions.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 4, 2018 10:52 am

Thanks for the info. Before I order, not sure which color to get and want to avoid removing sash if possible. I fairly certain it is the blue weight range. Any tips?

Also I saw in another thread that each balance rod should be turned 2-3 rotations. Does this apply to this item?

Also do I use the same screw for attaching bracket as well as the top of the balance?

PS do I need screw plugs? thanks

Tom from SWISCO

May 4, 2018 11:07 am

Thanks for getting back to us!

You may want to weigh your sash just to be 100%. I don't think you can even remove your sash for this kind of window, so if I were you I'd put a scale on the sill and gently lower the sash on top of it. It won't be 100% accurate, but it should give you a general idea of what you need.

Yes, 2-3 rotations should be perfect. If that's not enough, give it another 1-2 turns, but I wouldn't give it more than that.

You should be able to use your same screw. I don't know if you'll need a screw plug or not, these are generally used for a different kind of application. If your current screw hole is fine then don't worry about it.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 4, 2018 11:26 am

Thanks for prompt response
I did try with a bathroom scale. I had trouble getting a consistent reading but I still think it's a blue.
About rotation: 2 -3, if not enough, how do I know it's not enough? My guess is rotate to a point where more would be forcing it...

Tom from SWISCO

May 7, 2018 11:28 am

Great, glad you were able to determine the color tip you need. As for the rotations, you should start feeling tension build after 2 to 3 turns. You will feel it get increasingly tighter with each revolution.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 7, 2018 11:56 am

Thanks will place order soon

Tom from SWISCO

May 7, 2018 12:16 pm

Great! Feel free to update us on how it goes.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 7, 2018 6:18 pm

Hi I need more help please
Best I can determine. the sash is around 15#, which puts it as either red or blue. Should I go with the lighter range? thanks

RP

Tom from SWISCO

May 8, 2018 9:29 am

If your sash weight falls under both color tip options, then it doesn't matter that much which one you go with. They should both do the job equally well. It would ultimately be up to you.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 8, 2018 9:52 am

ok thanks! I appreciate the prompt response and all your assitance and information

RP

Tom from SWISCO

May 8, 2018 10:02 am

You're welcome! Thanks for coming to SWISCO.

Quick Learner from Louisiana

May 15, 2018 4:32 pm

OK all done. Thanks to Steve for some last minute phone support.
I was able to use old spiral nail holes for screws. It took a couple tries to get the tension right, but worked out fine. I will certainly recommend SWISCO to anyone for DIY projects of this kind. Thanks again for all your help.

Tom from SWISCO

May 16, 2018 10:03 am

I'll pass the word on to Steve. We'll be looking forward to your next DIY project, and anybody else you send our way is above and beyond. Thanks for the praise; we're glad to help.