Microwave latch

[Debbie Asher]

Well we are out on the road and darn if the microwave won't open. I guess we will have to wait until we get home and then get it repaired. I guess we will have to get a new latch and repair it.

[CORattler]

Hopefully your dinner isn't still in it! I wonder if you could use a thin piece of wire or fishing line to jimmy the latch?

[bncinwv]

If it is an Apollo half-time, there have been repeated posts about the latch problem, including some posts regarding the necessary repairs. Use the search function on the top menu and enter the keywords "Apollo latch" and it will bring up about three pages which will outline the procedure of taking the unit apart to get at the latch mechanism.
Bingo

[BB_TX]

Ours began operating erratically so I replaced it this last spring. Was pleased to see the replacement (a very slightly different model number) now has a pull-to-open door instead of the pushbutton latch release. Like it much better.

[Ozz]

Microwave latch, here are some photo's on that, take the trim off of the enclosure, lift out the microwave, have someone unplug it as you are holding it.
You have to take the fan assembly off the top of it, no biggie, then just un-screw the screws holding the top and back on. I think I had to groove the screws, or some of them with a Dremel cut-wheel, as they are a funny screw head.
If the latch is broken, just epoxy the broken part back on, I have pictures of how to do that, if needed.
Once you get the covers off, you can get the thing open and find out why it stuck, probably half of it is broken.


Microwave removed:



Have to remove fan assembly:


Microwave…exposed:


Latch, black on left:

[Ozz]

Here is the latch repair, I use a metal piece embedded in the epoxy to add strength, it has lasted 3 years so far:

http://s112.photobucket.com/albums/n194/JimsSue13/Ozzsmods101/Microwave%20latch%20epoxy%20repairs/

[BB_TX]

The cover has those security or tamper proof type torx head screws. You can pick up the driver or bits for those at a hardware store or home improvement store pretty cheap. Many different sizes though and I forgot what size that one is. But I also just used a pair of pliers when I didn't have the right bit, squeezed the screws hard, and turned them out.

[CORattler]

MOC! What a great forum with smart and resourceful members!
I bought a whole set of different bits and keep them in the Monty for just such problems.

[bighornram]

Funny, we have had our rig out on the road 3 times and each time we noticed the microwave door is open slightly. Only enough for the inside light to be on though the door stays closed. I guess I'll mention it to the dealer as it is going back for some repairs next week.

[Carl n Susan]

Well if you had mentioned your problem earlier today, you would be back in business. I have a spare latch mechanism for when the Apollo one gave up. It is yours if you want it. Both I and the guy next to me have changed them before so if you bring the microwave with you there is a good chance we will fix it for you.

[Debbie Asher]

Sounds good John and I will try to get it out and over in the next day or so. Thanks to everyone for the information.