Here is the answer that I got from ChatGPT, do you think it's correct? Thanks!

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How to Remove the Rust (Step-by-Step):

Materials Needed:

• Small wire brush or steel wool

• Rust dissolver (e.g., Evapo-Rust, WD-40 Rust Remover Soak, or naval jelly)

• Clean rags or microfiber cloths

• Protective gloves and eyewear

• Small brush (like a toothbrush)

• Rust-inhibiting primer or clear protectant spray (optional)

• Silicone-based lubricant or white lithium grease spray (e.g., WD-40 Specialist or 3-IN-ONE)

Step 1: Clean the Area

• Wipe down the area with a damp rag to remove dirt and dust.

• Dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Remove Rust

• Use a wire brush, steel wool, or toothbrush to scrub off loose rust.

• For stubborn rust, apply a rust remover according to product directions.

  • Naval jelly: Let it sit for ~10 minutes and scrub off.

  • Evapo-Rust: Soak a rag, wrap it around the part, and let it sit before wiping.

  • ==> My question: Can I use CLR (Calcium Lime Rust) to scrub off loose rust?

Step 3: Neutralize and Clean

• Wipe off any remaining rust and cleaner with a clean, damp cloth.

• Dry thoroughly with another rag to prevent flash rusting.

Step 4: Protect Against Future Rust

Option A – Clear Protective Coating:

• Spray the cleaned metal with a clear rust inhibitor, such as:

  • Rust-Oleum Rust Inhibitor

  • Boeshield T-9 (marine-rated)

• Let dry completely.

Option B – Light Lubrication:

• Spray moving parts and metal tracks with silicone lubricant or white lithium grease.

  • Avoid standard WD-40 – it evaporates and doesn't protect long term.

Preventing Rust from Coming Back

1. Apply lubricant or protectant every 6–12 months, especially before the rainy season.

2. Ensure good drainage around the window so moisture doesn’t pool.

3. Keep salt residue off by wiping window hardware with a damp cloth every few months.

4. If corrosion is extensive, consider replacing the hardware with marine-grade stainless steel or coated brass hardware.

I think any wire brushing, will damage all the paint on there, so it will all have to be repainted. I would also want to know how it got wet in there to do all that damage. Might be time for a new window.

You MAY be able to get new hardware, but also possible the screws are rusted and screws would never hold. Stop with the chat GPT as it is not the end all and be all for advice. I feel it is completely wrong in this instance. And window hardware is not and does not get treated as just any metal.

If it is not affecting the operation of the window, I would leave it alone. The factory applied finish is WAY more resistant to rust than anything you can apply yourself, and taking it apart might be tricky with rusted screws. If you start applying a wire brush to the hardware, you will remove some of the factory finish.

The hardware on my windows looks worse than yours yet they operate just fine.

I agree with w0lley to leave it alone. Except that I would spray it with Fluid Film to help prevent the rust from spreading. Fluid Film is a rust & corrosion penetrant/ inhibitor. It will penetrate the rust and help protect the base metal from further rusting and will not harm paint. Only caution is to not spray it on anything rubber.

Fluid Film is like the Holy Grail up here in the Salt Belt. Should be able to find it at an auto supply store.