Microwave Oven CHECKED OUT

[RV LYONS]

Hello, Our 1996 model M/V checked out (died) last weekend it was acting up since we bought the RV,(aug.'07). You would set the timer and it would stop after 30 seconds,hit the start button and would run again,sometimes it would run for the set time or shut off again,and then the door release button broke, so it is out and ready for Mondays trash pickup.

I'd like to replace it with aMicro/Convection Oven,I only have 22" in width,15" in height, and 16" deep. Anybody had to change theirs yet.I was online looking and most of the combo ovens are 24" wide.

I found a GE micro only at LOWES for $119. that would fit.
Any recomendations would help.

Thanks Rick & Robin

WE ARE...

[Gary RVRoamer]

Does your existing micro vent internally or externally through the sidewall? Most residential microwaves sold in local stores don't have an external vent kit, so are suitable for internal venting only. The big GE Profile models have vent kits, but they are 24' or more, as you said.

[Clay L]

As Gary mentioned, a word of caution:
I have replaced two microwaves with convection types, one in my last motor home and one in my present unit.
I would highly recommend getting the "build-in kit" for whatever brand microwave/convection you get.
In convection mode, convection micros get much hotter than the standard ones. When it was first installed, the temp behind mine got up to 200 degrees F after 45 minutes in convection mode.
I did not get the build-in kit for my first installation and went through a lot of hassle getting the temp behind the unit down to a reasonable level. I ended up adding a grill above the microwave and an exhaust fan blowing air through the side of the motor home. This involved a lot of work and cutting through the side of the motor home.

The second time I got the kit and the job was much easier. There was additional sheet metal in the kit that formed ducts to move air in from the front and back out the front. It also came with decorative grills that make the installation look like it came from the factory with the unit already in place.

Note that there are some minimum clearances in back and on the sides that must be met. You should make sure the convection micro you buy is small enough to allow for the proper clearances.

The one I installed in my present motor home is a Sharp Carousel Grill 2 Convection R-820-BK (the BK stands for black, I think WT will denote a white one).
The dimensions are 20.5(w) X 12.1(h) X 19.7(d).

It was a little too deep but we (DW really) got a little creative and figured out how to trim the sheet metal on the build-in ducts so they fit behind the supplied grills. Also had to move a junction box on the back wall behind the microwave a few inches over.
It looks like a factory installation.

[RV LYONS]

Hi Gary & Clay

The M/W vents inside, I saved the top & bottom trim picies and shroulds,(I'm a salvager)I checked out the Sharp R-820 I can make it fit. I have 17" deep. About an inch & half of the old one stuck out past the cabinet, I can make up some trim picies of oak to match,I installed a flat screen tv in the front & the bed room
last year,and new cabinet doors on either side of front TV.(had black glass doors). They have a build in kit for the Sharp, the price of the MW seemed reasonable. I can pick it up locally. Thanks for the info.

Rick & Robin