Casement window crank operators: handles and stems are stripped

Question

There are no identifying numbers or details that I can find on my windows. The left window crank and stem are worse than the right window.

Tightening the crank handle secure screw is ineffective and if I try tightening it any more I'll probably strip the screw's head.

The mechanics of both operators is fine. Its just the handles and stems that are stripped.

I watched the instructional video, specifically removing the bottom sill... My sill is sealed with paint. I'm not sure where to score the sill with a utility knife.

Your insight and advice would be most appreciated!

Tom · Accepted Answer

Hello! This looks like an Andersen brand operator. If the stems are stripped then that usually means that the gears are, too, unfortunately.

Before I recommend anything, can you show me a photo of it removed? Removing the bottom sill cover shouldn't be necessary, since the screws should be accessible from the exterior side. At the very least I'd need to see as much of the complete operator mechanism as you can show, even if it's still installed. That includes not just the base we see here but the arms as well.