Microwaved Mystery Solved! How To Take Apart Your Kenmore In Under 10 Minutes

Taking apart a Kenmore microwave oven may seem daunting, but with the right tools and a step-by-step guide, it can be a manageable task. This comprehensive guide will provide clear instructions on how to disassemble your Kenmore microwave oven safely and efficiently.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning, ensure you take the following safety precautions:

• Unplug the microwave oven from the power outlet.
• Allow the oven to cool down completely.
• Wear work gloves and safety glasses for protection.

Tools Required

To disassemble your Kenmore microwave oven, you will need the following tools:

• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Socket wrench
• Torx screwdriver
• Pliers
• Wire strippers

Step-by-Step Disassembly Instructions

1. Remove the Exterior Cover

• Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws holding the exterior cover in place.
• Carefully lift the cover off the oven.

2. Disconnect the Wiring Harness

• Locate the wiring harness at the back of the oven.
• Use a screwdriver or pliers to disconnect the wires.
• Note the location and color of the wires for reassembly.

3. Remove the Control Panel

• Use a flathead screwdriver to pry open the clips holding the control panel in place.
• Pull the control panel forward and disconnect the wires.

4. Remove the Magnetron

• Locate the magnetron at the top of the oven.
• Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the magnetron in place.
• Carefully lift the magnetron out of the oven.

5. Remove the Capacitor

• Locate the capacitor at the bottom of the oven.
• Use a screwdriver to discharge the capacitor.
• Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts holding the capacitor in place.
• Remove the capacitor.

6. Remove the Turntable Motor

• Locate the turntable motor at the bottom of the oven.
• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the motor in place.
• Disconnect the wires and remove the motor.

7. Remove the Fan Motor

• Locate the fan motor at the back of the oven.
• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the motor in place.
• Disconnect the wires and remove the motor.

8. Remove the Waveguide

• Locate the waveguide at the top of the oven.
• Use a Torx screwdriver to remove the screws holding the waveguide in place.
• Carefully remove the waveguide.

The Bottom Line: Reassembly and Troubleshooting

Congratulations, you have successfully disassembled your Kenmore microwave oven. To reassemble the oven, follow the steps in reverse order. If you encounter any difficulties during reassembly or operation, consult an experienced appliance repair technician.

What You Need to Know

Q: Why is my microwave oven not heating up?

A: Check the magnetron, capacitor, and wiring harness for any damage.

Q: How do I replace the turntable motor?

A: Follow the steps outlined in Step 6 to remove the old motor and replace it with a new one.

Q: Is it safe to disassemble a microwave oven without experience?

A: While it is possible to disassemble a microwave oven without experience, it is recommended to seek professional assistance if you are not comfortable with electrical work.