GE Lower Door Interlock switch

Microwave Repair
1

Hi,
I have a GE Spacemaker XL that isn’t working. The timer and light turn on, but of course it doesn’t cook. When I lift up on the door handle, I can get it to start and everything is fine.

From the forums, it sounds like I have a bad lower switch. After looking at the teardown diagram, I’m not exactly sure as to how I can replace it. How do I get to the lower door switch? Also, is that the part that i should try to replace first?

Do I need parts 1445, 1446, 39, and 40? I could really use some help.

Thanks in advance!

2

If the time on the display counts down after you pushed the “start” button but the microwave does not make any noise - most likely the problem is a bad secondary interlock switch and/or bad wire terminals.

Usually this is a very bottom switch (#1446 on the break down diagram).

To access this switch you have to remove the two screws holding the top grille and the grille.

Remove the screw holding the control panel. Slide the control panel up and pull the top of it toward yourself to open.

Here are the break down diagrams for the GE microwave Model JVM1340AW02

Gene.

3

Thank you so much for the advice. I removed the part and will order tonight. I am incredibly grateful for your help.

4

I also looked at the wire terminals, which look a little rusty. Can I just cut the wire and splice another terminal on in its place? Thanks again for the info in advance.

5

Yes, you can.

Gene.

6

Hello, I would like to learn how to replace the lower interlock switch on my microwave…the light and the timer work, the turntable does not turn and it does not heat. It happened before…is it easy to replace? Thanks.

7

Does it make any sound after the start button depressed or it’s silent?

Gene.

8

Gene-
Microwave turntable and heat is inoperative. Otherwise A-OK.
(GE JKP85BOA2BB, sn DV64261Q. Size 1.6cu, combo with oven, vintage 1999).

I pushed the lower interlock switch and hear distinct clicking and smooth operation. Is the upper latch also a switch? I see no switch mechanism and wonder if it is dislodged. If only one, lower switch, which SOUNDS like it works, what’s next? Replace the switch anyway. Might be worth it to me to try, given cost of entire combo unit ($1,600+).

If prob is the magnetron or such, I assume the unit needs to come out of the cabinet? is it worthwhile for me, an avid but electrically unskilled guy, to yank the unit out of the cabinet, take off the microwave, and try to fix this myself and/or find a shop? Ten year old combo unit… Penny wise, pound foolish?

Thanks for any clues…

9

cbreilly,

Does it make any noise and if it does - does it sound like usual?

Post the wiring diagram (if you have one) - it might help better to diagnose the problem.

You have to have a simple multitester to check some parts in the microwave.

Gene.

10

Gene-
It does make a sound which may be the fan, but not unusual.
I do not hear any clicking, zapping, or the usual “kick in” of the device when it starts sending rays.

Is it worthwhile to swap out the door switch to see?

Where does one find a wiring diagram? Navigate into GE site?

Finally, can I test and replace parts from front and inside of the unit. That is, this combo unit can stay in the cabinet?

Thanks!

11

In most cases problems with electrical and/or electronic parts are not visible and parts can be tested with a special tools (like a multitester) only. Guessing is one of most inefficient and much more expensive way to fix appliances and a microwave is not the simplest one.

I can only try to guide you through the troubleshooting process if you feel ready to do it.

In order to perform the troubleshooting the microwave (I hope the microwave only) has to be removed from the cabinet. The wiring diagram should be inside the microwave if someone else did not remove it earlier.

Gene.

12

CBREILLY…Replace the monitor switch. On these models, the mag and turntable goes through the monitor switch, it is the middle switch. Replace it and you’ll be good to go…