1936 Fenestra Operator

Question

I have several of the operators pictured which need replacement. It looks like item 39-344 and 39-358 should do the trick.

My issue is with removing the old operator. The three mounting screws are pretty well seized up so I'll probably have to do some cutting/grinding. However, I don't want to damage the mounting plate. Is there a better way to approach this? If not, do the appropriate mounting screws come with the new operators?

Thanks,
-Alex

User submitted photo of their window operator.

Dave Sr. · Accepted Answer

The 39-358 does come with installation screws. I'm also not sure if they will be the same as what you have now. You might need to check with a local hardware store if you need different screws.

Removing the existing screws is the big problem. I would try a lubricant like WD-40. Funnily enough, I have also heard that beer does something to the metal to help loosen screws, in some cases. You could also try a heat gun or possibly a hair dryer. Sometimes a little heat does the trick to loosen screws, but you don't want to do it too much as you could damage the frame or start a fire.