Abstract: A sash window balance assembly of the present invention is fitted in a window frame for guiding movement of a sash window. The assembly includes a coil spring secured to a flexible shoe having an opening through the shoe and a cam rotatably fitted in the opening. The opening has different interior diameter span regions including a small span region bordered by a larger span region. The cam has different exterior diameter span regions including a small span region bordered by a larger span region. The shoe has an open side for flexing of the shoe between a release position when the small span regions of the shoe and the cam align with one another and a brake position when the small span regions of the shoe and the cam are out of alignment with one another. The shoe further includes exterior brake pads operable in the brake position with the brake pads being tapered inwardly along and towards the open side of the shoe.