Does it matter to widen the distance of oven heater ends?

[fl]

Hi, My electric oven does not work anymore. It is found that the heater must be replaced. I purchase a heater element in nearby store. The problem is that the two ends of the new element are separated than the original one. Can I use tools to shape the two ends, i.e. to widen their distance to about 1cm in order to install it? I worry about the damage may incure. The second question is that anything to avoid electric shock relating to the installment. What measures should check after the replacement? Although I can repair normal applicance, I am still concern the safety issure involved. Thanks.

[Tim Downie]

Sounds like you've got the wrong element. Did you take the old one with you when you bought the new one? I've always found them a straight swap. I'd be surprised if fitters were expected to bend them to fit.

Have a look here and see if anything there looks like your old one.

may find this site helpful.

[meow2222]

If the proposed bending is spread over the element length, no worry. If it consists of bending the last inch at 90 degrees, no :)

L&N to E resistance, should be o/c

Its on a fuse or MCB, the metal case is earthed with a chunky wire. Its actually safer than most plug-in appliances shock-wise.

NT

[Graham.]

I thought he was referring to precautions he should take whilst working on the oven, which is a bit worrying really.

[meow2222]

well... I hope not :)

NT