spiral balances for Better-Bilt

A quick learner from Thornton, CO says:
June 28, 2020
I need to replace some spiral balances in Better-Bilt aluminum windows (tilt), circa 1995. Looking for guidance on which balance will work. These are 28" length but no color on the tip but the cam on the shoe is blue. It's a heavy window, with the sash measuring 45"W X 30"H. Without the vinyl cover, the tube measures just over 3/8".
Also, would it better to leave the vinyl cover off the balance? Wondering if the window may operate better without.
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Casey from SWISCO responded:
July 1, 2020

Hello,

It sounds like you may need our 5/8" diameter S600-28 spiral balance. Older spiral balances like yours determine the diameter with the plastic cover, so you most likely have the thicker balance. Modern balances do not have the same plastic cover, so you won't have to worry about that in the future. If there is no tip color, you'll need to weigh your sash and follow the chart under the S600-28 product description. 

If you need new pivot shoes as well, take a look at our 15-173 and see how the width and thickness compare to yours. Thank you!
A quick learner from Thornton, CO says:
July 1, 2020
Thanks Casey.
Good news on the ability to use the 5/8" balances. This window has a sash weighing about 33 pounds, so the larger balance makes me feel better about a replacement.
Those pivot shoes look exactly like mine with negligible differences in the measurements. But 25 years of wear could account for that. I'm going to order these and a balance loading tool to see how this window comes out and may replace many more balances and shoes if it pans out.
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Casey from SWISCO responded:
July 2, 2020

Great. Let us know how everything works out!
28" Series 600 Spiral Tilt Window Balance
28" Series 600 Spiral Tilt Window Balance
S600-28
$9.28
Pivot Shoe, 9/16" Thick
Pivot Shoe, 9/16" Thick
15-173
$2.72
Spiral Balance Charging Tool for Tilt Windows
Spiral Balance Charging Tool for Tilt Windows
75-006
$9.97
How to replace a tilt window spiral balance.
How to replace a tilt window spiral balance.
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How to Identify a Replacement Spiral Balance
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Anatomy of a tilt window
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How to choose the proper spiral balance tip color
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How to adjust a spiral balance on a tilt window
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