How to fix stuck awning window?

GuyfrmPK

Hello,

I have just moved into a house where there are a few awning windows which are stuck in the "Closed" position due to excessive corrosion.

I would like to replace the chain winders, but I cannot gain access to the chain fasteners attached to window framr as window is shut. (Also checked its not Locked)

How can I get around this to get the chain winder off?

Any advise greatly appreciated.

JacobZ

Hi @GuyfrmPK,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Unfortunately, as the chain runs through the aluminium frame of the window, the only way to remove it is to wind the chain out, unscrew it, then slip it through the hole in the frame. Getting the chain inside the housing moving is going to be the difficulty that we'll have to overcome.

I would start by soaking the visible part of the chain with WD-40 275g Multi-Use Smart Straw, utilising the straw to direct your spray, as best you can, back into the main housing of the chain winder. Allow the WD-40 to sit and soak for 2-3 minutes, then try winding the chain out. If the handle does not move, then you can often lift the housing and simply pull. As the chain is still connected to the window, the chain should unfurl when the housing is pulled.

Another option that could help is to pop the winder handle off and spray down into the housing. 

It could take a few applications, but as the corrosion loosens up, you should get some more movement. 

If WD-40 doesn't do the trick, you could also try CLR 750ml Ready To Use Calcium Lime Rust Remover.

Keep repeating this process until you can get access to the screws to remove the bracket from the window and slip it out through the hole in the frame.

You can then either restore the existing winder or replace it with a new one.

Let me know what you think and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob