Microwave replacement

[Hortense]

Hi.
We have a 2015 Montana 3610RL, and the microwave we had started blowing the internal fuse. So we want to replace it.

We've got one that fits the spot (measured and already lifted it up there), have removed the old one, so the question is on mounting. We have to put a new rear mounting plate in, since it's formed slightly differently. The new one has the screw holes in somewhat different spots.

Taking off the old one, it doesn't appear that there's anything specific supporting the plate back there, nothing similar to what you'd use in a house (2x4s). So it appears that the bulk of the weight is supported by the upper cabinets.

Anyone here know if that's the case?

I can post pictures if need be.

Thanks,

 

[Daryles]

When we replaced ours, I used a stud finder to mark the wall studs and screwed through the new mounting bracket into the studs along with adding screws through every hole in the mounting bracket (do NOT over tighten the screws) to be sure it won't ever fall off. Yes, then installed the two screws down from the top into the microwave.
We used leveling blocks to hold up the microwave while we removed/installed it.

 

[Hortense]

Thanks for the reply.
To be clear, your saying I should find studs behind the wall over the stove? Because our stud finder didn't find any, and it didn't look like the screws for the old mounting plate were driven into anything like a stud.
You're saying there should be 2x4 studs back there?

 

[Mikendebbie]

The studs are not wood - they are aluminum.
Screen shot of wall framing from a factory tour video showing aluminum stud framing before vacuum bonding insulation, exterior fiberglass and interior wallboard

 

[Hortense]

Thank you. That helps a whole bunch. And you can tell the level of expertice you're dealing with here.

Is there a methodical way to find them, since a traditional stud finder won't?

 

[RMcNeal]

There are stud finders that will work, they usually can also find electrical wire and plumbing lines. You might have to spend a few more dollars, but it's worth it if you do any work on your rig.

 

[Daryles]

I have this one. It also lights up red if you are near an ACTIVE electrical wire.
If you can't find a stud (different model rig, different stud locations), like I said above I put a 1" screw in every single hole the new mounting bracket had. The wall is 1/4" thick Luan (plywood). Do not over tighten the screws. They will strip out.