How to renew a PVC Window handle in locked position?

I have P.V.C windows in my apartment and the handle started to become wobbly and then stopped opening the window altogether. I removed the handle and it basically fell apart. The trouble is, now I need to attach a new handle which would be screwed on in a open position and it needs to be in the closed position in order to be able to open the window. Would I be able to open it with a longer spindle and some pliers, before attaching the new handle? Any help would be appreciated.