Removal

The 60 Series channel balance is most common on a single hung aluminum or vinyl window. The bottom venting sash slides up and down, while the top is fixed and does not move. To remove the balancer the venting sash needs to be removed.

The window needs to be in the closed position to determine the type of take-out clip used on the window. The most common is a metal clip about 1/4 inch wide by 1-1/4 inches long. Some windows have a plastic clip and some have a protruding dimple. The procedure is basically the same. The instructions are based on the metal take-out clip. Some windows have a plastic stop or bumper to stop the window from raising all the way. If the window has this it needs to be removed before proceeding.

There is a metal take-out clip on both sides of the window frame. Pull both take-out clips away from the side of the window. The bottom of the clip will pop out. This catches the balancer when removing the venting sash. Raise the sash up to where the balancer engages the take-out clip. The balancer may not be visible, but you can feel the connection. Continue to lift the sash up as far a possible and push to the left or right. The sash will disengage from the balancer allowing one side of the sash to swing out away from the frame. Remove the sash completely from the opening and set aside. The balancer is now exposed and normally the top is locked into the take-out clip holding it in place. If the balance rod is broken it may be laying loose.

Pull down on the channel balance to release it from the take-out clip. CAUTION: The channel balance is under extreme tension and must be handled with care until the tension is released. Tilt the balancer forward and you can see a string with a clip attached that is hooked to the frame of the window. slowly let the balancer retract and relieve its pressure. The hook at the base of the balancer must be removed from the window frame. Take note of how the hook is removed. To reinstall the new balancer the hook must be inserted back into this slot. After you have identified the correct size and weight of channel balance the process is reversed to reinstall.

Installation

Insert the clip from the bottom of the channel balance into the slot in the window frame and then push down on the balancer to engage the top under the take-out clip Tip: Sometimes the hook can be positioned to make the engagement easier. Sometimes the hook can be pulled out a little and use your thumb to hold the tension while inserting the clip into the frame. After both channel balancers have been properly installed the sash can be replaced. Be sure the top of the balancer is secured in place under the take-out clip and is centered in the opening.

Put one side of the sash into the jamb above the take-out clip.( the higher, the better) push as far in as possible and then swing the other side of the sash into place. Lower the sash slowly and be sure the sash has engaged the balancers. Push the sash down into the locked position. Push in the bottom of the take-out clip on both sides. Open and close window to be sure it is operating properly. Replace plastic stops / bumpers if needed.