How can I remove an old microwave when the cabinet lip is obstructing its rotation?
Asked by Leo Grewal 
6 months ago
Last Updated: May 28, 2024
I’m attempting to swap out this ancient microwave, but the cabinet edge is preventing me from turning it forward to remove it. Any ideas on a different approach to get this thing out?
Make sure to look at the top to see if mine is bolted in there
Mine too,
I know it’s not ideal, but have you considered removing the upper cabinet?
I found myself in a similar situation where I needed to remove my upper cabinets. Even though I was already replacing them, I struggled to tilt it forward enough to remove it from the bracket.
When it comes to taking down upper cabinets, the easiest option may be to check how they are attached to the wall. In my case, a bolt on a track system made removal a breeze.
Most of them have 2 screws on top. When the front drops down, lift the bottom up and pull forward. I’m pretty sure the cabinets were there before it was installed.
☝🏻
Appreciate the suggestion! We attempted that, but couldn’t manage to remove it from the bracket at the back.
Hmm, they managed to fit it in there with the lips of the cabinets in place.
You’ll need to remove the two lower moldings to tilt it forward and take it out. That’s what I did with mine.
Oh wow, , that’s exactly what I was concerned about. Was it difficult to remove the trim? Did it cause any damage?
No way. Just use some finishing nails from the bottom, through the molding, and into the bottom of the cabinets.
Take off the trim
The first step is removing the light rail
If you want to take out the microwave, start by removing the cabinet doors
The microwave might’ve been set up before the trim was added. You might have to remove the trim or loosen the upper cabinet and side cabinets from the wall.
Haha, I would probably struggle if I attempted to disassemble the microwave… lol
That could possibly be a solution haha, but the trim is blocking the installation of the replacement.
Might not be satisfied if he just opts for a good hood and moves the microwave elsewhere. It sounds like he wants something else. Haha.
I used to have a cabinet over the range but switched to a hood during our remodel. Personally, I’m not a fan of those. The sheet metal lip on the brackets can be bent with enough force, but it’s a risky move that I don’t recommend. However, it can be done.
I would simply unscrew the boards below the cabinet since they appear to be added on.
The back has a bracket with a lip and bolts on top (but you probably already knew that.) Chances are, you’ll have to take off the trim to install the new one if you’re choosing a similar over-the-range microwave.
Just open the upper cabinet and you’ll see 2 to 4 bolts securing it. Remove them while someone supports the microwave from falling.
However, it will still need to tilt down to be able to lift it off the rear bracket. I believe the bottom trim has to come off. But it shouldn’t be too hard to remove and put back on.
Hey, when you’re trying to attach those to the support plate in the back, you can either lower the front of the microwave or lift up the back. It’s a long hook and slot connection in the back. You can choose to either remove the top cabinet or the trim, whichever is easier for you.
Thanks for the tip everyone! I had to remove the light rail at the bottom, luckily it was nailed in and not glued.
Great job, . I knew it wouldn’t be that difficult