Kenmore 790.31032802 gas igniter glows but no heat

[steve01]

Model Number

790.31032802

Brand

Sears Kenmore

Age

6-10 years

Our Kenmore Elite gas range, model 790.31032802, will not heat when set to bake. Here are some observations:

1. The stovetop burners light up just fine.
2. The broil igniter glows orange and lights up the top burner (see blue flame across the length of the burner). Heats.
3. The bake igniter at the bottom glows, perhaps even brighter than the broil burner, but the burner doesn't light up. I have attached a photo of the glowing igniter.
4. There is no error message on the front display.

Although the range is about 10 years old, it is not used a lot - perhaps once or twice a week, if that.

From what I have read, the igniter may still be at fault. The igniter has wires that end in a plug and I cannot figure out how to measure the current draw with a DMM, and I don't have a clamp-around ammeter. This means I will need to get a tech to come by to test. Unfortunately, the OEM igniter for this unit runs around $250. As such, I am looking at around $400-$500 for the fix. Worth it or should I go for a new range? Is there a way to rule out other possible fault points before I go after the igniter?

TIA.

 

[Dan O.]

I cannot figure out how to measure the current draw with a DMM, and I don't have a clamp-around ammeter.

Rick made this diagram that shows how to do it either way. That style ignitor needs to draw 3.2 to 3.6 amps to open the gas valve.

the OEM igniter for this unit runs around $250

Yes, it is priced on the very high end of the scale. It is likely due to its specific wiring.

LINK > Kenmore 790.31032802 Bake Ignitor

That range was made for Sears by Frigidaire/Electronlux. Frigidaire has a general replacement ignitor (see the following link) that could probably be used instead. While still OEM quality, its wiring can be cut and joined to the existing wiring using ceramic wire nuts.

LINK > General Replacement OEM Frigidaire Oven Ignitor


Dan O.