sash caps and rods

Landlord from Jacksonville, FL
Aluminum windows around 2001, rod marked 29 4 BSI ml.

Sash weight 24 lbs
12 Replies
Paul
Paul from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Thanks for posting! I can't really identify what kind of balance you have based on this information. Based on the stamp, I think you might have a channel balance, so check out our Channel Balance Home Page and follow the steps shown in order to find the Series you need. Let me know if you have any questions.
Landlord from Jacksonville fl
You are correct, I need the channel balance. Here are pictures.
User submitted photos of a window balance.
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Great, thanks for the clear images. I think you might want to consider our Series 385 channel balance. How does that compare to your own? Do the dimensions match up? You should definitely make sure that the bottom shoes are the same.
Landlord from Jacksonville, FL
Which endcap (that holds the channel balance in the window) do I need?
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Are you referring to the Top Sash Guide? I see it in your picture now. Looks like it's just the top part broken off. Could I see an undamaged version with dimensions? That will help us find something.
Landlord from Jacksonville, FL
Ok, can you tell me how to pop them off without damaging one?
Casey
Casey from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
You would need to compare the measurements but a good guess would be SWISCO product code 18-166, top sash guide. Take a look and let me know.
Landlord from Jacksonville, FL
that looks like the right one. Here is a picture.

Broke two more putting it back.

Also, my channel balance width dimension is 5/8, so I don't think the series 385 is the correct channel. Any other suggestions?
User submitted a photo of a sash guide.
Casey
Casey from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
Great! That picture is perfect. Yes I think that the 18-166 looks like a good match. Just make sure that all the dimensions line up.

As for the channel width, I think our Series 385 still might be best. The actual width of the channel is 9/16", but it is considered 1/2" in the trade. Looking at your picture, it also seems like your metal channel might be bowed out a little.
Landlord from Jacksonville, FL
I agree with both points. I remeasured the channel at a rivet and got 9/16.

What is the difference (other than foot) of the 380 and 385? My foot, which is worn, measures just micros less than an inch which seems a closer match to the 380.

In talking with a local window guy, they cut off the outside (against the frame) part of the foot to prevent heat expansion friction.

Thoughts?
Tom
Tom from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert
You're right, the foot is the only difference between the Series 380 and Series 385. If yours is just a little less than an inch deep, then perhaps the Series 380 would be better after all. It's possible that the shoe was just worn down from use. You will have to use your best judgement, though.
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