Sash window weights clashing

Where I trained we called "wagtails" by the name "mid-feathers". They seem to have been uncommon until the general introduction of plywood in the 1870s/1880s and even when fitted they often rot away in windows subjected to weather. Clashing can sometimes be caused by the weights being incorrectly tied-off causing them to tilt a little into each other's path.
 
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It sounds like they might be replacement lead weights. Can you scratch them with ease?

I often get seconded to help a friend of mine who restores sliding sash windows.

It is often the case that when windows are reglazed the new glass is thicker and heavier than the old glass, in which case someone replaces the old tubular weights with lead. Sometimes the square profile lead is wider than it should be. IIRC there are two standard widths, it sounds like you have the one that is too wide.

You can replace the weights for the smaller profile weights (which will be longer) or try to fit a wag tail.

Oh, and never automatically assume that the weights in place are the correct ones. As I mentioned earlier, if the glass has been replaced with a thicker glass, the whole single sash will now weigh more. The only way to determine the new weight is to weigh the sash, that however requires you to remove the beadings and lift it out.
 
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Ok I’ll have a look. I think I checked weeks ago

These weights have a hook at the top.
Some hooks are offset which is good.
Some are Centered

Anyway compairing left (ok) and right (clash) the front weight isn’t going out to the front as far as it should.

There is a wooden thing stopping it.

Anyway it’s a hot day so I better paint.

May chamfer the bottom of the weight off to help it past
 
AndyPRK said:
Ok I’ll have a look. I think I checked weeks ago

These weights have a hook at the top.
Some hooks are offset which is good.
Some are Centered

Anyway compairing left (ok) and right (clash) the front weight isn’t going out to the front as far as it should.

There is a wooden thing stopping it.

Anyway it’s a hot day so I better paint.

May chamfer the bottom of the weight off to help it past
Click to expand...

Chamfer cast iron?
 
OK a completely of the wall question??

Is the sash still attached to the weight by the rope??

Just a consideration.

Ken.
 
Is the sash weight nearest to you in the offending pocket hitting the timber of the sash horn inside the pocket?

If so the rope may be too long?

Ken
 
iOS Image - 3765410503.jpg
 
Andy, can you describe the wooden obstacle that you mentioned earlier?

As an aside, I have encountered long screws that pass through the room facing side of the casement that have ended up pushing the weight of the lower sash in to the path of the upper sash, eg the cord tie for roman blinds. Even overly long architrave nails can be a problem.
 
D

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