First, I believe this may be your model # ARG7302LL and not this one with an apparent typo ARG7302
2LL.
To answer you final question.
No, if the igniter is bad you should not smell gas; the valve should not open. The change of resistance in the igniter when energized is what sends the appropriate voltage back to the gas valve when calling for gas to open. With a failed igniter this won't happen. With regards to the location that has failed, this is consistent with why your other areas are still functional.
I like to also add, I am not familiar with this particular model however, I think I can offer you some information that may be useful.
The least expensive route and a likely culprit would be the bake igniter (oven igniter) as you were perhaps suggesting.
Part Details - WHIRLPOOL Oven igniter, part number: AP2934763If this doesn't glow and I mean hotter than cherry red, it should resemble white-ish orange after it is on for a few moments almost white hot. A weak igniter may or may not be sufficient to call for gas at the valve. When it comes up to a working temperature, it sends a change in current back (a signal) to the gas valve which will then allow the valve to open when calling for gas.
If yours doesn't glow very bright or at all, it has failed or failed completely. If not glowing you willl usually you will find a hair-line crack or a missing piece upon inspection. The only other thing that would give a false failure is no or inadequate current where the igniter attaches. (Odds are this is not the case; you should have somewhere close to 120v.)
The new part is hard and brittle be careful not to damage it when installing it.
Only use ceramic wire nuts with the insulated jackets on the wires.
Also, sometimes you have to use your old mounting bracket so be careful not to damage it.
Let me know if you get a very hot igniter and still no ignition, ok?
This would point to perhaps a broken wire or maybe something else.
Nic:)
