What stops a microwave turntable from running?

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When a microwave turntable stops working, troubleshooting the problem is usually easy. The turntable assembly is a fairly simple design and can normally be repaired quickly and inexpensively, once you know what problems typically occur.

Tray

One common reason a microwave turntable stops moving is that the tray has been set on the plastic drive bushing incorrectly or it has slipped off the guide ring beneath. This can occur when heavy objects shift the position of the tray or when the tray has been bumped during use.

Guide

The turntable guide, a plastic ring found beneath the microwave plate or tray, can become non-functional. A common reason for the turntable guide not moving is that the guide has broken or has become shifted. Often, a food spill has gummed the small rollers on the guide and stopped the movement of the tray.

Drive

In the center of the microwave, under the microwave tray, is a drive bushing that is connected to a motor under the floor of the unit. This drive bushing holds the tray in place using molded plastic grooves that correspond to bumps on the bottom of the glass tray. If the bushing becomes loose or broken, the microwave turntable may move erratically or not at all.

Motor

With years of use, the motor that is responsible for turning the drive bushing and the microwave tray assembly may stop working.

Repair

If cleaning and correcting the position of the tray and guide ring does not correct the problem, check the drive bushing or the motor. Replacement guide rings, bushings, motors and trays can be ordered through the manufacturer and repaired at home or at an appliance repair shop.

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What stops a microwave turntable from running?

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