replacing cooktop?

[Deb Mac]

I am considering replacing the OEM 3 burner cooktop in my TM with this 2-burner unit. https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0C...803CZEHU&psc=1

The front of the OEM unit is falling apart (tuck tape holding it on!) and the counter-top where the whole thing slides into is pretty chewed up (PO 's were pretty rough on it!), and when you use the folding cover, it jams up and tries to lift the whole thing out! Tired of wrestling with it. I rarely use it, and when I do, 2 burners is plenty.

Since it looks like I would have to make some repairs to the countertop there anyway if I swap in another of the same type, I thought I might be better off (maybe easier in the long run) to replace the whole section of counter top and fit this new unit in there.

Anyone replace their cook-top in the past and have any suggestions for replacement units besides this one?

[Bill]

Deb -

Sadly, this is a somewhat common problem. If caught early enough, there are a couple of sturdy fixes that aren't too hard to do - one from ShrimpBurrito, and one from me. They are shown in this thread.

https://www.trailmanorowners.com/for...ad.php?t=21958

But once it has progressed to the condition you describe, the rebuild you suggest probably makes sense.

Let us know how your fix goes. It looks like you will lose the oven as part of it?

Bill

[Deb Mac]

Thanks Bill. I don't have an oven. But it's possible that a PO had the full stove/oven and ditched the oven. I also have the OEM Sharp "Warm n Toasty" microwave/toaster oven (that was a story all in itself) in the space that would have been occupied by the oven. The shelf supporting the microwave looks like it may be an add-on so probably there was an oven originally, and it created the issue you are all dealing with. Either way, I do think that my best bet is to replace the countertop and start fresh. I do recall seeing another thread from someone who had the same problem with the counter top wearing away at the edges in the front. Left you with nothing to screw the cooktop frame into.

But since the cooktop itself has taken a real beating over the years, and has become a PITA to deal with, I think starting new is the best way to go. I can pick up a very nice pulled Atwood cooktop on FB marketplace for $250 (no cover though) but I would still have the problem of trying to rebuild or replace that section of countertop in order to install it. Better to start with a clean slate and sell the old one off for parts or for someone's outdoor stove or something for 20 bucks! Might even look at a drop-in cooktop. But no rush right now... she's closed up and covered for the season. I'll keep my eyes open for a deal over winter and add it to the short list of spring projects.