Window balance decision guide

Spiral window balance replacement: identification, measurements and safety

Spiral balances use a tubular balance with a spring-loaded mechanism. Identification and measurement come first; if the stored-tension condition is unsafe or uncertain, stop handling the balance.

Identification and fit check

First identify the hardware family, then collect the measurements that affect fit. A likely family is not the same as a confirmed replacement.

JavaScript is off. Use the static guidance below to identify the hardware family and record measurements. No computed fit result is available without the selector. Use the static measurement guidance on this page instead.

Opening and visible hardwareOpening typeOperation typeVisible hardware formTilt stateObserved stamp or marking (optional)

Channel measurementsChannel length

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Channel width

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Channel depth

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Bottom guide / terminalPivot relationship

Spiral measurements and safetyTube length

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Rod length (when applicable)

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Tube diameter

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Rod / end configurationTip / bushing / bearing colorHandling safety status

Pivot shoe / pivot hardware measurementsPivot shoe width

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Pivot shoe thickness

Enter the observed value. No tolerance is assumed.Pivot shoe profileCam / slot descriptorMating balance system

Confirm the family

A tubular spiral form supports a spiral-balance classification. Exact fit can still depend on tube dimensions, tilt state, rod/end configuration and other application-specific observations.

Spiral balance measurement checklist

Record tube length and tube diameter with units.
Record rod length when it is relevant to the observed configuration.
Record tilt or non-tilt state.
Describe the rod/end configuration.
Record tip, bushing or bearing color only as an observation; color alone is not an exact-part match.

Safety / STOP

Spiral balances can contain stored spring tension. If the balance is damaged, loose, difficult to control, or you are unsure how tension is being retained, stop handling it and use appropriate manufacturer or qualified repair guidance before continuing.

Before you shop

Category-level browsing can be appropriate after the family is supported and safety is resolved. Exact compatibility still requires the fit-critical observations to agree.

Not sure it is a spiral balance?

Return to the identification guide.