The windows are from about the 1940s and they have tube balance system that I was told might have been called "unique balance". I'm not sure where to look for markings, but I can't find any. They are the 5/8 size and tube lengths are about 22 inches 24 inches. We need one set.
Thanks, Kathy
unique balance system for old windows

Handy Person from Honesdale, Pa.
Sep 1, 2012 10:49 am
4 Replies

Tom from SWISCO
Sep 4, 2012 9:49 am


Thanks for posting, Kathy! It sounds like you have a Spiral Balance. However, before I can determine what Series you have, can you first tell me if your window is tilt or non-tilt?

Quick Learner from Honesdale, Pa.
Sep 4, 2012 3:37 pm
Hi Tom, They are non-tilt (I wish they did tilt in)!
Thanks, Kathy
Thanks, Kathy

Tom from SWISCO
Sep 5, 2012 8:10 am


Thanks for getting back to us, Kathy. It sounds like you may have our Series 500. Does that look about right? Let me know if that matches up.
Based on the lengths given, I'd recommend the S500-22 and S500-24, which have lengths of 22" and 24", respectively. I would also recommend one of the brackets available for these balances, such as our 17-012. You can see more of these under the Related Item(s) section of their product pages.
Next, we will have to figure out what color tip you need for each balance. Please take a look at the tip strengths for both of these balances and see which one would be best for you:
S500-22
The Red Tip can carry a window sash weight range of 6 through 19 pounds.
The Blue Tip can carry 10 through 29 pounds.
S500-24
The Red Tip can carry 7 through 29 pounds.
The Blue Tip can carry 12 through 31 pounds.
Does your sash's weight fall within any of these ranges? That would be the tip you want.
Please keep in mind that the weight range information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.
Based on the lengths given, I'd recommend the S500-22 and S500-24, which have lengths of 22" and 24", respectively. I would also recommend one of the brackets available for these balances, such as our 17-012. You can see more of these under the Related Item(s) section of their product pages.
Next, we will have to figure out what color tip you need for each balance. Please take a look at the tip strengths for both of these balances and see which one would be best for you:
S500-22
The Red Tip can carry a window sash weight range of 6 through 19 pounds.
The Blue Tip can carry 10 through 29 pounds.
S500-24
The Red Tip can carry 7 through 29 pounds.
The Blue Tip can carry 12 through 31 pounds.
Does your sash's weight fall within any of these ranges? That would be the tip you want.
Please keep in mind that the weight range information is based on 2 balances per sash. Balances are designed assuming friction in the jamb weather-strip will carry a portion of the sash weight. Suggested sash weights are approximate.
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