Converting range burners

[rallenhall]

I have an old Norge electric oven (ED60VB/ED68VB)that has served me well over the years. Unfortunately, I can't find any source of replacement elements or drip pans. The elements mount in the pans, so when the pans burn out there's nothing to support elements. Anyway, the burner receptacles are all four-wired, and in my searches it seems that all of today's receptacles/elements are two-wired. Is there a safe way to convert this cooktop from four to two wire receptacles and use the elements and pans from another manufacturer? I'd like to keep this unit, as the oven works well, it has a verticle broiler, and the large surface accomodates stock pots.

Thanks, Bob

[Doug]

Have you checked with a local appliance parts supplier? Many have cross reference listings for substitute parts. You won't be able to find such parts at Home Depot/Lowes, etc. You will have to go to an appliance parts specialist.

That multiwire element system sounds a lot like the old GE units of the '50's and 60's. They used a multibutton switch to control burner temp by putting sections of the elements in series then in parallel, etc.

Having the elements mount in the pan is not unusual. I've seen several makes of ranges that did that.

I am SURE that the parts or a substitute ARE available.

There's a great interest in restoring old appliances these days and parts are available for stuff going back to the 1920's. You just have to look in the right places. Also, have you tried on-line suppliers?

Doug

[Dan O.]

That looks like 2 different model numbers, maybe from the wiring diagram which might be the same for both?

Is there anything wrong with the elements otherwise?

Sounds like you need wide cut-out element drip pans. You can see some at the following links. You'll need to compare the grid in the images to see if they're suitable size for your range though.

Wide cut-out drip pan, Large Element:

Wide cut-out drip pan, Small ,Element:

You'd need to replace all the element switches ($25-$35 @) then try to mount the 4 replacement element receptacles ($7-$15 @) onto the existing cooktop, purchase replacement elements ($20-$45 @) and drip pans ($10-$20 @) and hope they fit properly into the range top.

It's not really feasible (or cost effective) IMO and probably wouldn't fit properly.

Dan O.

- Appliance411.com

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