Can anyone here fix a microwave?

[Robb]

Wife went to turn it on and said it "popped and there was a spark". Unplugged and tried different outlets, reset the outlets in the kitchen, nothing, it's just dead. It's a GE.
I'd replace it but cash is tight and it's a nice microwave, I'd like to fix it if possible.
If you have some microwave repair skills, let me know.

Robb

[rondog]

AR and a couple 30 rd. mags will fix it right up!

Seriously, getting stuff like that fixed can be a challenge, and nearly as costly as a new one. Good luck!

[00tec]

I tinker and can take a look at it. No guarantees, as I'm not a pro, but can usually tell if it can be salvaged.

I get bored and like to fix stuff. Hell, I bought a non-working plasma TV the other day because I didn't have anything better to do.

[ezgoinrob]

AR and a couple 30 rd. mags will fix it right up!


Just what I was thinking...

Ez

[waxthis]

A Buddy of mine had a similar thing happen to him. This was his response to your question..
"

It is probably one of two things, the diode, or the magnatron. I have included a couple of websites which show how to test each. Replacing either of these is very easy. Just make sure that whoever is doing this: DISCHARGE THE CAPACITOR!!! by shorting it out across the two poles with a screwdriver (without touching the metal on the screwdriver). The magnatron should be about $40 and the diode is about $3. I have seen websites selling these diodes for $19, but if you pay over $3, you are getting bent over. They cost pennies in bulk.

It is usually the magnetron about 90% of the time




http://www.panasonic.com/business/docs/local-docs/commercial-food-services/Bulletins-PDF/E10-2010-06MagTestBulletin.pdf

http://www.partselect.com/microwave+test-diode+repair.htm
"

[Beer]

[sniper7]

Pull off any panels on it that you can. Most of them have a fuse (the ones that looks like glass tubes with metal on each end). My guess is that was the pop. Replacements can be found at lowest or home depot. Just make sure you get the same size to avoid a fire hazard.

[Robb]

Nice! Thanks for that info. I may pull it apart and well... see how bad I can F it up. Who knows, maybe I can even fix it. I'll have t watch some youtubes on how to discharge the capacitor, never done it before.

[Tim K]

I have Tannerite standing by in case you do make a mistake...

[J]

If you get in over your head, I'm an EE and would be happy to take a look and answer any questions you might have.

[funkfool]

Start by placing microwave directly over crotch...
[ROFL1]
[Beer]
Seriously - trash it - unless it has sentimental value *sniff*... tons of them on Craigslist for under 25 bucks.

[StagLefty]

If you get in a bind for one and short of cash the thrift stores usually have quite a few. [Beer]

[00tec]

Nice! Thanks for that info. I may pull it apart and well... see how bad I can F it up. Who knows, maybe I can even fix it. I'll have t watch some youtubes on how to discharge the capacitor, never done it before.
Just like crossing the posts on a battery.

[Whistler]

Probably the fuse, had a couple do that before. Last one was loud thought it was gone but I still use it in the shop.

[SideShow Bob]

Make sure to unplug the cord BEFORE SHORTING THE Capacitor.
If there was a large visible flash or spark, it will most likely be the magnetron.
Also is it a touch panel digital display or an older mechanical dial timer ?
Does the display and interior light still work or if an older type, does the interior light still come on ?

[Byte Stryke]

I bought a "Floor model" from walmart for 50%


+1 to the replace it
if times are that hard Brother, maybe we can pass a hat.

[theGinsue]

If it comes to it, and we get anyone passing through C/S up towards you, I have a spare I'll give you. A drive for either of us (even meeting 1/2 way) would negate the value to basically nothing over just buying one or replacing the defective part(s).

[Wulf202]

check your fuses, if it's anything more it's totaled.

I just gave a nice counter top one away last week...