Stuck window winder

quynhpham55

Hi, I am just moving in a new house and there is a Lockwood window winder without key from previous owner. Window cannot be opened and when we wind the handle it keeps turning but the window is not moving. I want them to remove then I can put in new lock but don't know how..

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @quynhpham55. It's wonderful that you've joined us, and many thanks for your question about removing window locks.

Have you tried pushing the window out whilst winding the handle? It might not actually be locked, and instead, the internal gears could be stripped out. By assisting it with pushing, it might be enough to open the window and then you could proceed with the lock removal process.

It can be quite challenging to remove a window winder from the window if it is in a closed position. The winder mechanism can be easily be removed from the frame with the two screws on top. However, the chain is attached to the window, and the fixings are obscured by the winder mechanism whilst in the closed position. You need to open the window to make this a simple process. If you can open the window, then you'll be able to drill out the pop rivets attaching the chain to the window frame.

Another option is to try and cut through the chain with a Stanley 254mm Mini Hacksaw. You'll need to remove the winder mechanism via the two screws and once the window is free, there might be enough gap to slide the hacksaw between the winder mechanism and the window frame. You'll need to be very careful not to damage the window in this process. 

This sounds like a job for a locksmith, and if the window is just locked, they'll be able to cut a new key for it.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell