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Joined: 8/10/2009(UTC)
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The tech just left our house. Says we need a new magnatron. Neither dear husband nor I have electronic/appliance repair experience. Can husband EASILY and SAFELY install a new magnatron? EASILY and SAFELY are the operative words.
Or should we go shopping for a new microwave?
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Rank: Member
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Joined: 3/28/2009(UTC)
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As long as you unplug it and discharge to capacitor, it should discharge itself and I have never seen one that didn’t but you need to short it to ground using an insulated screwdriver to be on the safe side. This page will help you replace the magnetron tube. GE Spacemaker Microwave Magnetron Tube Replacement
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Rank: Member
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Joined: 8/10/2009(UTC)
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Thanks, applianceman - we'd seen the link and it's a good start. Now for a real novice question but here goes....what does discharge to capicitor mean?
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Rank: Member
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The capacitor stores electricity much like a battery but can be charged and discharged much quicker. On microwaves the capacitor stores very high voltage and can be dangerous. When you unplug the microwave the capacitor should discharge itself but if it doesn’t you could get shocked by the high voltage. At the bottom of that page right after step #13 you will see a picture of the capacitor if you short the leads of the capacitor to ground with an insulated screwdriver or insulated wire you will know the capacitor is discharged.
Note that I have been working on microwaves for over 15 years and have never seen one have voltage on it with the microwave unplugged but I know it is possible and you should be aware of the possibility.
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Rank: Member
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Joined: 2/9/2010(UTC)
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Thanks for the diy - I ordered the magnetron & will attempt myself
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