Window won't open

Bought a modular two years ago, have no idea how old the windows are and I don't have any literature. I have two windows that will not open or tilt. Here is a pic of spiral rod inside of a window that works. Very frustrated

I had a handyman here today who got the windows open, he thinks they are getting caught at the lock mechanism. He said the windows slide up and down easily, but when you close them completely something prevents them from opening. He put a screw driver between the windows on the outside at the lock position and banged up on the screw driver and it opened up.