I set a pan on the front left burner of my range and saw a flash from inside the glass top which was followed by a little bit of smoke. The burner doesn’t work anymore. The “Cooktop On” light does come on but the burner does not heat. I do not know how to get into the range to see what I need to replace. I also would like to know what the flash of light was and what needs to be replaced. Is this something I can repair myself?
Here are your parts
Replacement parts for RF262LXSB models | AppliancePartsPros.com
Here is a manual which should be close to your unit.
http://appliancedigest.com/index.php?/files/go/d58a487e388c70dbcf11e35b4d2343a2/whirlpool-kr-31-30-inch-free-standing-electric-range-with-self-clean-service-manual
You have to join the site to download the manual but it is free and this is a very good site for manuals and other info for the appliance repair DIYer.
Sounds like that element has burned out. The flash was probably a spark cause by the element opening. You will probably be able to see the damage to it.
Always unplug the stove when working on it even with the element off there will still be 120 volts to it.