You didn't provide much info about the windows but unless they were manuf. with a tilt mechanism, you aren't going to get them out without removing the jamb. Your problem is one of the reasons so many people have painted their windows shut and now want to replace them.

It sounds like you are dealing with an all wood traditional double hung window with a metallic spring balance that had previously been fitted into the side jamb sash pocket. If so, the removal is often simple.

Start by removing the interior sash stop with a thin putty knife by easing the wood out horizontally, from top to bottom and a little at a time. If the wood is painted, it helps to find the seam where the sash stop meats the jamb and score the paint vertically along this area.

Next, remove the nails you found that secure the metallic spring balance housing on both sides of the inner sash pocket (the lower sash). The sash and metallic balances will slide inward together.

The upper sash requires the removal of the center or middle sash stop. The removal of this piece can be tricky at times. The wood piece is traditionally set into a mortise or plow in the side jamb and is anchored physically only (i.e. no nails or glue). Due to the metallic liners, this traditional wood stop may also be covered by a piece of metal. Try to wiggle the stop from side to side (if painted, score both sides of the stop, where it meets the jamb). I haven't ever experienced one that has not come out, but some require extra effort. Once loosened, it may be tricky to slide it out of the plow and past the lower rail of the upper sash, but this can be done without cutting or breaking the stop; just be patient. Once this component is removed, the upper sash and metallic liners can be removed the same as the lower sash.

I have not worked on this type of metal liner in a very long time, so please be patient if you find additional requirements necessary for sash removal. Also, please post your findings if other than described above.

mcsblder-

I think you are right. I have included a couple of pictures.
The bad news (for me) is that we just put up all new trim which we would have to remove in order to remove the sashes. I'm thinking it will just be easier to paint the sashes in place, though I'm sure I could do a much better job if I took the time to remove them.
If, after reviewing the photos, anyone knows of a way to take out the sashes without removing the trim around them let me know!
Or if anyone has advice on painting the sashes, that would be appreciated too.

window with trim removed