How To Replace An Andersen Window Crank

For more information or a written out step by step you can stop by www.thediyguy.n... . A video on how to replace an Andersen window crank.

[@rh71]

Great informative video. Was able to replace 1 that was slipping, but another one of my windows wouldn't close all the way and it turned out not to be the crank at all, but the metal sash bracket (that also comes with a new crank package) screwed into the bottom of the window itself. Either the screws are loose and the bracket is also loose, or it is slightly bent out of shape. I put in the new bracket and left the old crank and it closes all the way now. Hope that saves someone some troubleshooting.

[@autowebtechnologies3040]

How do you know what model Anderson casement window crank/parts you need? Suggestions?

[@donturner2573]

Followed this step-by-step procedure and it turned out to be such an easy repair/replacement. Thanks!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Don Turner Great, glad to hear it went smoothly for you. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment.

[@Bu11yBa11]

What if the wood that the operator screws into on the window itself is rotted? I couldn’t find any pieces of trim like that at lowes is there somewhere I can order it?

[@Hectortuba155817]

What is the purpose of the crank? Granted people don't want to have to put the screen on and off, but why not just open and close it with a long folding stick? I got a house with twelve of these and over half have busted and just sit unused with their crank hardware just falling apart. Thinking of going crank less if they serve no purpose.

[@JCO847]

Hard to open the window with a stick when there is a screen inside it. Unless you want to take the screen off each time.

[@keni8363]

great vid...the key piece was the trim removal portion..i didn't even know there was a removeable trim piece until this video...thx for posting :-)

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Thanks. Just be sure to check which style window you have the one with the screws that hold the lower trim or the one with just finish nails holding it on. The heads of the screws will be down inside the lower part of where the screen sits within the groove. You're welcome, Glad we could help and good luck with getting the window crank replaced. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up/ like if you haven't already. Thanks

[@craigvelardi7420]

I have a similar style cover with no screws and cannot find any information on how to take the cover off. Spoke to two Andersen reps, both of which said it should pull right off and one of them said the casing may be holding it on. I stated it rocks left and right and there is no paint holding it in. Seems like the center is held in somehow causing not to slip off the shaft. Tried pulling it off by hand, using a screw driver, clamp to get a good grip and small pry bar. It's not coming off. Any suggestions?

[@incyphe]

oh god, thank you so much for this video. Now I have a shot at tackling this myself... I just hope the wood is not rotted out because my handle is wobbly.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

incyphe Your welcome, Glad we could help. If your handle is wobbly it could be that the worm gear is stripped out or that the screws have backed out of the window crank. Good luck with the repair.

[@MrBroFo]

thanks so much...have an Andersen awning crank that needs replaced, and this makes it look like its's easy enough.

[@browsguy]

TheDiyguyDotnet This video covered everything that I needed to complete the job. Great video and thank you!

[@nickygee010]

Perfect step by step instructions. My repair worked exactly as you showed. Thank you.

[@PaulaFrolka]

I appreciate the video and was able to replace our hardware. Thank you

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, glad we could help. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment.

[@alexandermolina8747]

Seems like you'll feel a draft on top of the plastic cover and below it where the caulk doesn't reach. Caulking would solve draft but obviously you don't want to caulk on top of the plastic cover. Any thoughts?

[@mp6522]

Do you know where I can purchase the base trim?

[@danaspetrini8338]

Thank you so much for this! I used this to fix all four of my Anderson cranks! So helpful!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could help. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment.

[@agalligani]

Hey! Thanks for this. I replaced. Unfortunately the problem w/ the window not shutting all the way in my case it because the bracket on the window itself is loose. The new packet came with a bracket replacement as well as the crank. The instructions say "use the new screws because they have a larger diameter." So I'm guessing it's a problem that is pretty common?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could at least point you in the right direction. We have had that. The thing we run into the most is the bottom track/ screws is rusted or the pivot point or that it didn't have the proper headed above and crushed the window making it hard to move or close fully.

[@michimelody4036]

I have to lift the screen up and over the cranks to get them off.... Is that normal? (It's been like that since we moved in)

[@yoburn123]

Nice video. I was wondering if the plastic cover can be removed by itself? There is lots of splattered paint on the cover that i want to clean up. But when I remove the 2 screws in the plastic cover, it does not seem to come off easily. I scored the paint around the cover and no luck. I do not want to apply too much force as it seems like the cover will crack. Thanks.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Thanks. Some are easier to get off then others depends on how it sits next to the plate. They do sell them amzn.to/2sLTxgx this style you have to loosen or remove the plate above in order to get the plastic cover off. as the wood will pinch it and yes the paint will hold it more then you think.

[@rjejrny1]

I got the cover off pretty easily, seemed like it's simply wedged under the wood at the top but pulling it up gently from the bottom I was able to then slide it out towards me. My problem is the inner crank shaft fell apart and I can't get it back together. Thought this vid would help, I'm more of a repair it than replace it kind of guy. I'll keep looking but may need to buy a new one.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

If by inner crank you mean the worm gear has come out of its spot.. That's the most common problem. The window binds or gets stuck and someone turns it with a little more force and the worm gear pops out of the little dimple/ crimp. The window will normally open fine but when you try and close the window the worm gear pops out. I haven't seen or heard of anyone for a fix for that we just end up replacing them. There 20-30$ depending on what side it is and which style. amzn.to/2OFUbWk

[@Msmomma1973]

I have Anderson window for our egress window, but the crank looks totally different. How can I show you the picture?

[@robertnewman4105]

thank you. I bought a house with these type of windows. 2 are stripped just like the one in the video. I appreciate it!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could help and good luck with getting them replaced. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up / like if you haven't already. Thanks

[@juanitoalimana5158]

Good job. Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us

[@RVGMInc]

Dude, great instruction!!!!!!!!!

[@joeandthefoxybunch34]

Thanks my guy. This was very helpful

[@Cyberdemon1985]

Great video thanks! Does the caseman window operator come in one size fits all windows; that is, is it a standard stock item for all windows? How can I get a part number from my old part?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Thanks. The window operators are not a one size fits all as there are tons of options out there. Not only in the lengths of the arms but there are single armed, double armed, ones with pin style arm ends or track style arm ends. There are some that are very common like the one I installed in the video. Best way - You could remove the old one and search on the operator and find a part number. Another way in the corner of the glass of the window there's the part number for the window itself sometimes you can find the operator out using that. 2nd best way would be to take a few measurements off the old operator and compare them to find the right operator. This amazon link will show you some of the measurements you would need to take in order to find a replacement. amzn.to/3cdTDCW I have/ and use a blaine hardware catalog that I use to match up operators and other replacement window parts. They have since added to there website link www.blainehardware.com/catalog/ So once you have your measurements you can look though the catalog and match it up and get a part number. Once you have the part number you can search around for the best price as there not always the lowest. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up/ like if you haven't already. Thanks!

[@Paulg865]

How to find replacement crank that fits my window. There is no ID tag anywhere on window, asked the help of a handyman even he could not find it. I also have anderson casement window that looks exactly like the one in this video, almost identical size it seems.

[@johnc1280]

I can’t remove my casing behind the crank It’s got a set screw. Removed that and crank arm handle came out but cannot get that plastic casing out

[@aliciamayacruz-olivo5056]

Thank you. I am going to attempt this for my windows

[@dandroid7757]

Thank you! This was very helpful.

[@jimmychow4917]

Very nice video. Thanks

[@nahshonanderson2543]

What of you can't find same window crank?

[@hnness1]

I'm hoping you can tell me if its possible to change out a crank window for a "normal" window so we would be able to use a window air conditioner. Any suggestions/advice would be appreciated!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

+Heather Ryan Hello, Yes it is possible to replace a crank out window for a double hung window. To start you will need to know the size of your opening. For that you will need to remove the interior molding and measure the framed opening. Order a window to fit. Next you will need to figure out if you need the "J channel" applied or not. I would say no unless you are planning on siding your house in the future. Then its a matter or removing the old window, sliding the new one in and securing it, then foaming around it to the framing to make it air tight. Trim the outside to your exterior siding and then caulking it to make a water tight seal. Then redo the trim on the inside.

[@christianramirez5566]

@@TheDIYGuyDOTnetplease do you have a video of how to replace a crank out window for a double hung window. I would really appreciate your help.

[@polena32]

Thanks for the easy to follow video!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could help. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up/ like if you haven't already. Thanks

[@cytherians]

Is there any way to repair this window crank? Mine is having the exact same behavior. Or is it sealed up and replacement of the whole crank is the only way to go? Thanks!

[@kenh8334]

They are sealed units that are not repairable.

[@miowname]

Thank you, you make it look easy, will let you know. Again, thank you for sharing the video

[@tricksterculturalcenter7304]

do you have a video on replacing the locking arm in the frame?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Currently I don't next time I have to work on one I will try and capture it for you.

[@julielucia3930]

Is there any other way to do it without removing the trim I don’t know my house and if God for bid I miss the subway landlords not gonna be happy

[@harryb3768]

Thank You Very Much Never Thought to remove the molding like that. Harry B.

[@pamyers1959]

Very helpful and concise explanation and pictures.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Thanks for the kind words and for watching.

[@amputnam]

Can I replace a straight arm operator with a split arm? I've got 4 bad window operators and the straight arm replacement are 3x the $$ than the split arm

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Unfortunately you need to replace with whats there. You might be able to get something else in there but I'm sure the window wont operate the same.. Not open or fully close. Yes, Some operators are pretty expensive.

[@shortrun59]

Where do you buy replacement parts?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Amazon has a few amzn.to/3ZNkrUa . I know Home depot use to keep a few different styles and lengths in stock. at least there you can bring the old one and match it up in person. There is also a website we used to order mutliple off at a time. blaine window .com

[@chloewalton3277]

I’ve seen them on eBay too.

[@robkaratzas963]

I would always sacrifice a cheap putty knife when using a pry bar on a window sill. (Even a second one under the trim being pulled out as well.)

[@Starsk25]

You have to remove the trim? My neighbors have broken cranks and in one window, the whole crank is missing.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Yes, You need to remove the lower trim in order to get to the screws. Some trim that are held in place with 2 screws down though the trim so check to see which style it is before you try and remove it. They will be down in the screen track/ channel.

[@hairlosssolutions5]

Anderson windows are the worst. The windowy no longer shot correctly and many of the krancks are broken. Aren't they supposed to last for a few years?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

There are some versions that fail. The hinge pin rusts on some but the most problems we see with these style windows is that the framer/ builder didn't put in a big enough header and the framing comes down above window causing it to crush the frame of the window or make the window out of square and thus causing the window to operate poorly by rubbing on the frame of the window which puts more stress on the window operator/ crank causing them to fail.

[@katew936]

How do you know which replacement crank to buy? Does it vary based on the age of the Anderson window?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

If you look within the corner of the glass there is a number you can use that to figure it out. I have a book from blaine window that i use. They do offer it online at blainewindow.com click search parts and then click the operator that looks similar and click it and it will bring it up and then double check that the measurements match up to yours. Then you will have a part number to search around to find it the cheapest.

[@katew936]

TheDIYGuyDOTnet - Thanks so much!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

@@katew936 You're welcome. Good luck with finding and getting your window crank replaced.

[@captlightyear]

This was a good video but I have one suggestion. Instead of tearing out the window, I simply drilled a hole above each screw and removed the screws, then the assembly. I inserted the new assembly and using the holes drilled, replaced the screws. Then I filled the holes with wood filler. Easy.

[@JCO847]

I was just watching some videos before I do this job on my window, and I had the same thought, so funny to read it here. I was also looking to see whether all my screws were visible where I could use one of those right angle screwdrivers from the back side (the open window side) although I think there probably isn't enough room.

[@kellison1838]

Thank you for posting this

[@grobanitepatsfan]

Thank you for this. Very helpful!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could help and good luck with getting yours replaced. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up/ like if you haven't already. Thanks

[@8msquared870]

thank you very much, very helpful

[@34muggsy34]

This is a great video! Thank you!

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

You're welcome, Glad we could help. Thanks for watching and taking the time to leave us a comment. Don't forget to give the video a thumbs up/ like if you haven't already. Thanks

[@spectrum10]

I had the problem of being able to crank the window open but unable to crank it shut. It turned out that this problem was caused by lack of lubrication in the track of the window. The track is outside and exposed to the elements and needs to be lubricated periodically.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Yes keeping the track clean and lubricated will prolong the life of the window crank. Thanks for watching.

[@WiiZKiiD23]

What series window is this I have the same and can't figure it out

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

off the top of my head I don't remember.. Could find out for you. Why do you want to know the series? To figure out it this is the correct replacement arm? There are a few of them so you will need to measure yours form pin to pin and match it up. If you click the link in the description it will take you to our write up and if you click the first line it will take you to amazon and you will see cranks on there with measurements. So you can match them up to yours to ensure you have the right one.

[@kenh8334]

It's a 400 Series PermaShield Casement. Manufactured from 1966-1995. This particular window has a Right Hand "split-arm" operator.

[@BetyBoopLuv81]

How much does the new crank cost ?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Sorry for the late reply.. Depending on the style you need they range from 20-45$. You normally can find them cheaper online then in the stores. If you need the same one in the video we have a link to it on our website if you click the link in the description it will take you to it. Thanks for watching.

[@thomastanton7963]

TheDIYGuyDOTne

[@carlito3094]

dude thank you so much , awesome job

[@BigTony2Guns]

Nice Job !

[@Kevinthewiseone]

is there any way of tighten the stem of the crank

[@Kevinthewiseone]

or do I have to replace the whole crank

[@kenh8334]

Replace the whole thing.

[@donnabrown6416]

Thank you so much 😊

[@AlexisSixtos0]

How do I take the window completely off?

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

To remove the window. There are clips top and bottom that need to be slide back off the pin. At 3:06 in the video you will see the lower clip right behind where the window crank is screwed down. Grab a flat screw driver and move those clips back and off the pin. There is one top and bottom. Once those are moved back off the pin you should be able to grab the window and slide it towards the other window and out of the track. You should see the black colored slide attached to the corners of the window top and bottom sitting within the track.

[@johnstawicki3185]

NICE JOB

[@aladinsarsipeus]

andersen wood casement. greatest windows ever made😊

[@perrigo68]

Good luck on finding the part

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

Scott Perrigo What part are you talking about? The window crank itself? There's a link to them on our website, can also walk into a depot or lowes and grab it off the shelf. You can also buy replacement handles, the plastic cover right by the handle and they also sell the wood that covers the crank. So not sure what part your having trouble finding...

[@Puddycat00]

Mine is white but I don’t see any screws on it. There is no way to unscrew it.

[@TheDIYGuyDOTnet]

There should be screws.. It's an Anderson window? You can snap a pic click the link in the description of this video and at the bottom of the page you can upload it to our website and I'll take a look.

[@mattcatt2]

TheDIYGuyDOTnet I might have the same type here. After you take off the handle, there is a plastic cover masking the screws that you also need to remove. It’s held in place only by the handle, so just pull it off and the screws are exposed :-)

[@flintcityhc1524]

I am 100% confident I wont be able to replace my mold perfectly.

[@MartinFallon-m5p]

Looks like you could’ve done a little more clean.

[@THERAJABAJASHOW]

Why is it so hard to replace it? Why can't Anderson invent something easy and DIY.

[@aceyorba]

Andersons window cranks suck...terrible design

[@TheBoundBowman]

Please somebody clean that sash.

[@erichsh58]

Anyone who is just now researching how to fix your windows, please read through all the comments below. DIYGuyDOTnet provides answers to other common problems, including links to Amazon for inexpensive replacement parts. It's a real eye-opener to me because an hour ago I was thinking I had to spend $10K to have new windows installed.

[@jaemanshin]

Thankyou so much!