How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6017075 / WPW10207398 Bake Element

I replace the bake element. The element is hidden, so replaced through the back. I had to cut through the insulation then bend a thin aluminum cover after removing the exterior cover plate. It was not difficult - only time consuming, but I was taking my time because documentation is limited and this was my first repair of a hidden element. The oven is 8 years old. I was shocked how badly warped the old element was from use. My ohm meter needle didn't move at all, so there was zero continuity. No wonder if it didn't work. I wonder if the element being inserted into a narrow slot shortens the life expectancy. I made myself a calendar reminder to replace it in five more years. 

Replaced bake and broil elements on an oven that was 6 years old. The bake element was completely broken and warped when we removed it. The broil element was still working but had "split" the outer sheath in couple of places so replaced it since it was only a matter of time before it went. 

Replace the hidden bake element. Requires removal of a few back panel and lots of screws. Will need to cut the insulation (tuck up/down), to allow old removal and new install. Removal of old is tedious. Installation of new is not as tough, because you know what it takes. 

Heating element installed and upper oven working. Used your website to trouble shot problem and how to repair. 

AppliancePartsPros.com website led me to a defective lower heating element. Replaced the element and all is good.. removing the sheet metal panels to get access to the element was tricky but not difficult. Replacing the panels was much more difficult. Working with sheet metal is always a challenge but well worth the effort in savings on labor costs. Parts diagrams on the site were not very helpful as the metal panels were not all shown in enough detail which I blame on the manufacturer. Once again, AppliancePartsPros.com saved me a bundle on labor and I always enjoy the challenge of doing the work myself. 

My 10 year old Kitchnaide in the wall oven has been a very good until now. It could reach 374F on bake but would not reach 400F. I replaced the Temperature Sensor first as that job is really easy. That did not fix the problem. Next I replaced the bake element. It takes some doing. Pulling the oven out of the wall then flipping it onto its side to access the bottom. I removed both bottom pans to have full access to the bake element. It did not appear visibly damaged. However, the 10 year old bake element failed a continuity test. I replaced the element and everything is back to normal. Perhaps I could have replaced the bake element by simply entering from the back, but I wanted full access and I did not have to damage the insulation, plus I wanted to see the original element fully. Not an easy job, but I saved $$$$. 

Called for some tech help. Got advice on how to check the element and ordered the part. We received it as promised. Installed it just in time for some more cookies. 

Ordered a new microwave lightbulb and baking element which arrived quickly. Built a stand that was the height of the bottom of the unit, removed the screws holding the unit in the wall and pulled it out on the stand which was on a towel to protect the floor. Rotated the unit, removed the screws holding the top cover in place, release the retention clip for the light bulb and installed the new bulb, replaced the top. Took off the lower back cover, took a picture of the wiring, unclipped all the wires and connectors, removed the second cover which required bending up some metal tabs. Pulled down the insulation blanket carefully, removed the element retaining plate and pulled out the failed element which was very warped and fractured. Inserted the new element and placed the insulation blanket back in position and then reapplied the inner cover, routing the wires as before, then replaced the lower back cover, reinstalled the oven in the wall. You will need a square drive for the element retention plate. 

Unit was a wall mounted oven/microwave combo. The bottom burner is hidden under the oven floor. Had to pull the oven unit out of the cabinet. Turn it on it's side then remove the back guard, bottom plate, remove the insulation then remove the burner guard then was able to change out the burner. 

Replaced the (hidden) oven bake element; not an easy job. Took care of the problem 100%! Also replaced the Oven temp sensor just in case......All together took about 2 hours