"drive shaft" (?) for a Milgard casement window crank operator

Handy Person from Seattle
What is this part actually called? Is it possible to simply get new retaining rings/clips? If not, is it possible to simply replace this part without replacing the entire operator? The window opens completely, but this "drive shaft" threads out of the operator when trying to close the window. When I removed it, I found bits of curved metal that looked like some sort of deteriorated retaining rings.
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10 Replies
Handy Person from Seattle
What is the minimum/least expensive option to repair this operator. It is a Milgard casement installed by my city electric utility in approximately 1996 while i was renting this house, so I have no documentation. Please provide the part number please and any other info I need to place an order.
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Bob
Bob from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Thanks for posting. I am afraid when that piece, the worm gear, pops out, it means the entire operator has broken down and needs to be replaced. Fortunately we can almost certainly help. I just need a clearer picture of the entire assembly, including the link arm(s) that push and pull the window closed. The bird's eye view you have in your second photo is the right idea, I just need a clearer view of the arms in the same shot. From there we should be able to ID a replacement for you. 

Handy Person from Seattle
Thank you for the speedy response! With the window now stuck in the fully open position, it's hard to get a clear shot of the link arms because they are directly above other parts of the assembly. Here are two shots of the failed operator.

There is a twin window at the other end of the attic bedroom. The operator on that one still functions. Since they were both installed as part of the same energy conservation retrofit and have the exact same dimensions, I assume the operator is identical. I'll send a couple of more photos with the window partially open from the one that is still functioning.
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Handy Person from Seattle
Here is the good twin.
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Bob
Bob from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

I appreciate you taking the time to get these photos for me, they're a huge help; and exactly what I needed to see.

My top recommendation here is the 39-031. we also sell the 39-032 for the opposite side, as well as the 39-114L handle and 39-107 cover. Note that you can reuse the cover and handle if they're still in good condition.

As long as the measurements match up then you should be in good shape. I think they will, but you should always triple check just to be sure.

Dimensions for 39-031
Dimensions for 39-031

Handy Person from Seattle
Bingo! Thanks!!
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Bob
Bob from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Excellent! Let us know if you need anything else, and thanks again for reaching out. 

Handy Person from Seattle
The replacement operator arrived today ahead of schedule. It is an exact match. Thanks again.

The gears on the unit I removed were packed in grease. The new unit did not come with any grease. I'd appreciate advice whether and what kind of grease to use.
Bob
Bob from SWISCO
SWISCO
Expert

Great! I'm glad it's a match. Concerning the lubrication, I would recommend using white grease. 

Please feel free to reach out if you had any other questions!

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