We have a Kenmore Elite Mircowave model 665.61689101. The handle broke and I would like to know how to get at the lower screw to mount the new handle.

Can you post a picture of the handle? I have found that some handles have broken at the mounting screw and that a second mounting point is next to the original point.

As I bet you know, 3651W1A022B is the correct original part number for Kenmore (by LG) model 721.80019401 and as I'm sure you know, it has been discontinued, with no other substitutes listed.

You could take the old one and *some* appliance shops will try to visually match it for you to see if it would mount, even if the color or style is different.

You may be able to find an original in "new old stock" at some parts supplier, either locally or online. I would Google the part number, then call them and ask if the part is actually in stock on their shelves.

Some suppliers list them on their Web site, even though they would have to order them, and sometimes you wouldn't be told it is "No Longer Available" until some time after you have placed the order thinking it was available.

Or you may be able to fix yours. I would first wash the broken handle in a dishwasher, then only dry it with compressed air or let it air dry.

Then I would use JB Weld (or something similar) to pack into the broken end. Once it's dry, I would sand it as needed, then drill a new mounting hole for the screw.

Let me know at microwavecontrol.com if I can help further.

I have a similar unit and I removed the outside of the door by loosening two flat head screws on the narrow where the handle is located. There are several screws yet holding the outside plastic housing too. Once these are removed the plastic door will come off. Then the handle will be accessible.
The same issue started with my oven too and I replaced the original handle with larger screws and using a high quality plastic glue.
This held for a while. The plastic door cover seemed to have changed dimensions during its life and warped. I ordered a new door and it lasted a short while. I then asked for a new door under warranty.
Bottom line they wouldn't sent a new cover but they returned my money. Apparently the doors all had crappy plastic issues. Currently we are using the microwave with out the door front. It still works like new after 10 years though.

Most of them you do have to carefully pry. You look on the inside of the door and you will see the choke seal. It runs around the whole outer edge on the inside of the door. Take a butter knife or a small screw driver and start to pop it up and out of the door. Slowly work around the door until it is completely free. Once you get that out you will see the door hook and will just have to look how it is mounted into the door. There will be a spring attached to it to allow it to pull up and down as the door is opened and closed. Make note of where the spring is attached to the inside of the door frame. It will have to hook onto your new part and back on the inner door.

HI. in most cases, this will lead to a failed Heating device(magnetron tube).It would be wise to check the Magnetron cutoff fuse to be sure of its integrity. if the fuse is blown, simply replace it. if the fuse continues to show continuity, replace the magnetron.

(((The fuse is located inside the unit along side the magnetron)))

You will probably need to take the MW down and remove the outer case to access the hinge for the door.

just received a new door assembly for my Kenmore microwave and spent about an hour searching for help with installation to no avail. , but managed to replace it by prying the small pin out with a flat head screwdriver and removing the door. I reused the pin (after straightening it), and it works great.

The door handle is secured with the two screws from inside of the door. In order to access them you have to remove the inner door frame. You can find how to remove it in the video clip from one of our previous posts.

To access the door handle mounting screws, you have to remove the inner door panel that goes around the perimeter of the glass. You can use a small screwdriver to simply pry the plastic up and work your way gradually around the perimiter of the glass. Most microwave ovens have grooves in the panel that you can insert the screwdriver into. Use care not to pry against the glass. The glass is tempered and also has an RF shield that prevents harmful microwaves from potentially harming the consumer. If you break the glass, you will need to purchase a new door.

The door handle screws are located behind the inner panel. Simply remove the broken handle and install the new one. Re-insert the inner door panel carefully and gradually work your way around the perimeter of the door glass and make sure it snaps back into place.

If you have questions, please let me know. I hope you find this information helpful.

remove door handle

Yes it can.

Sears can get that for you...

Geno