How do I change the lightbulb in the Panasonic inverter microwave?

The folks at GE told me you need a technician to change this bulb. Phooey, I say. It was a piece of cake. Save $ 100 and follow my instructions. I did it. I would imagine most GE microwaves would be similar.

Here's how to do it. I bought this bulb (part # WB36X951) from PARTSTORE.COM for $ 18.58 total (that's bad enough). Got the bulb within a few days.

This model GE microwave, is a stainless model with stainless inside and grilling element.

The bulb is located directly behind the front control panel (on the right), but you need to remove the stainless cover to get to it. Naturally, unplug it first. You'll need one those star bits (not sure what size), a philips head won't work. There's four of those sneaky screws on the rear. Remove those screws and the cover slides off. VOILA! It's magic! The bulb, you'll see, is sealed to a base, but it has as double slide contact. Undo this before removing the bulb. It's snapped into a little fixture. Remove the old bulb and snap new one in. Replace the contact leads and that's it.

The cover is a little tricky to get back seated properly. Along with the sneaky star screws, this is another attempt to discourage consumer servicing. Make sure that the cover is flush with the back before replacing the screws. You're done.

I for one, am tired of this type of this type of rip-off and scamming. I hope this tips helps many and saves some of you from paying a ridiculous service fee.

If this tip has helped you, let know. E-mail me at cdpays@bellsouth.net.

Craig Pays
Kenner, La.