My microwave was manufactured in 1984. just recently started shooting out sparks? Do I need a new one. Doesnt work well

It sound like the antenna behind the plastic plate may be warped and touching the cavity. From my experience when they start shooting sparks it is time for a new microwave.

That would be difficult to track down, but you can use a universal door switch "open or closed " selection making it handy, some tv repair shops still may carry some parts, appliance repairman another choice.

if they are you find them at this site marcone.com, all you need is a model #

the container of these items probably contain some metal which doesnt go with the microwave

It sounds like the main transformer has failed. It would be cheaper to replace the whole microwave than repair this one. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Hello, W/D here.

Sparks shooting out of anything is bad news. The good news is that the price of microwaves has fallen quite a bit, and the technology has actually improved, even since 2003. Making even a service call to repair your microwave will likely cost you more than it is worth. Your money will be better spent in placing it towards a new microwave. This is just my opinion, but I have worked on a few of them.

Best regards, --W/D--

try sealing the metal up then if that does not work get a new 1

you need to replace the cavity cover "the cardboard like",the antenna bearing set "the gun barrel like" and the gear motor.If the "gun barrel like" is stuck up because the gear motor is not rotating excessive heat will occur inside the microwave thus burning the cavity cover.

I bought a piece of mica from an appliance repair business and cut out a new piece. Microwave is working fine. Apparently food carbonizes on the mica and causes the microwave to spark. If anyone has this problem, call around and find a repair shop that buys mica by the sheet, rather than paying for a piece from the manufacturer.

Hi There!
Check behind the "Wave Guide Cover" on the inside cavity. There may be moisture or food residue behind it. Should be a cover that is plastic or Mica. Really strange that it's sparking being new. Also check that you use plates without gold or silver trimmings (Crockery or porcelein). This will also cause sparking. Remember that microwaves will always go to the first organic source in its path. The wave guide cover, if soiled, is very close to the tip of the Magnetron and will therefor result in arcing. Good Luck, JUS004