How to replace infinite switch 316436001 on an electric Frigidaire/Electrolux range

Is your stove refusing to heat up, leaving you with uncooked meals and frustration? A faulty surface element control switch might be to blame, but fear not—this is a fix you can tackle on your own. Scroll down to watch our step-by-step how-to video and get your range back in working order today!

Replacing a defective surface element control switch is a fairly quick and easy fix you can perform yourself on most major range brands that include switch knobs on the front .

The infinite switch (also known as the control switch) routes electricity to the burner, so replacing it can help restore normal heating.

With a compatible replacement control switch and a few basic tools, you should be able to get the burner on your Frigidaire/Electrolux range working again soon.

If you need the replacement surface element control switch or any other part for your machine, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com to place an order.

Let’s dive in!

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Watch here: How To: Frigidaire/Electrolux Large Surface Element Switch 316436001

What you need

• 1/4-inch nut driver: To detach the screws from the rear top of the control panel above the elements.
• Phillips head screwdriver: For removing the control switch mounting screws and side panel screws.
• Needle nose pliers: Helpful for disconnecting/reconnecting switch wire terminals.
• Towel or pads: To protect the cooktop surface when lifting the control panel.
• Magnetic tray or small container: For safely keeping removed screws together.
• Replacement switch 316436001

Read more: Electric Range Heating Coil Cleaning & Upkeep

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, please remember to stay safe. Follow these safety measures when replacing a surface element switch on your range:

• Turn off the power supply: Unplug the range or shut off the circuit breaker before disassembly to prevent electric shock.
• Let it cool down: If the range was recently in use, allow plenty of time for it to fully cool to room temperature.
• Move slowly: Take your time when disassembling any parts to prevent accidents.
• Disconnect wires carefully: When removing switch wiring terminals, grip the plastic connector ends rather than directly tugging the wires.
• Lift range components gently: Don’t twist or place force on delicate control boards or wires.
• Wear gloves: Protect your hands from sharp metal edges and pinching hazards.

Read more: 6 safety tips for using an electric range

Replacement steps

1. Unplug the power cord to the range or flip the breaker to disconnect the power.
2. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to unscrew and remove the screws from the top rear area of the control panel above the stove buttons. Set the screws aside.
3. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to find the screws on each far left and right side of the control panel. Remove both Phillips screws and set them aside.
4. Remove the plastic end caps on the left and right edges of the control panel by pulling them off outward, detaching them from the range.
5. Find the faulty large surface element control switch on the panel. Remove the plastic switch knob by pulling it directly outward to remove it from the stem.
6. Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws securing the faulty switch to the control panel.
7. Place a towel over the cooktop to protect it.
8. Tilt up and lift the entire control panel carefully, propping it upright to access the rear wire connections.
9. Look over the wire terminal connectors that are fastened to the back of the faulty switch. Take a close-up picture with your phone for reference on exact wire positions and terminal connections before fully removing the switch. Make a note of the wire colors and terminal labels on the old switch.
10. Use needle-nose pliers to detach and remove the wires from the terminals one by one.
11. Gently detach the defective switch from the panel holes to remove it completely.
12. Use the needle nose pliers to gently squeeze the ends of the wire connectors to attach them to the new switch. The spaces are narrow so the connections should be tight.
13. Refer back to the picture of the old switch as needed to properly reconnect wires to their corresponding terminals on the new switch by color and position.
14. Line up the new switch into the panel, then insert and securely tighten the two screws.
15. Set the control panel gently back down into its position. Check for any other loose wire connections that need to be tightened.
16. Take the switch knob that you removed earlier and slide it over the switch stem until it’s fully seated.
17. Replace the end caps on both ends of the control panel, aligning the tabs into the slots. Then reinstall the screws.
18. Replace the control panel by reinserting the two bottom screws and two top screws.
19. Reconnect power to the range and test the switch.

Read more: How To Remove A Stripped Screw

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the infinite switch on your Frigidaire/Electrolux range.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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