WMH73521CB0 Whirlpool Microwave - Instructions

The original bulb came apart while unscrewing it from the back of the microwave, leaving the metal screw thread contact still in the socket. Since this is an over-the-range micriwave there isn't enough room to manuever needle nose pliers into the socket to remove the screw thread contact. So this is how we were able to remove it.
Unplug power cord.
Take a standard wine bottle cork and whittle down one end until it fits in the socket. Then, using a bit of pressure push the cork into the socket snd begin unscrewing the screw thread contact until it comes out of the socket. Works like a charm!

Followed instruction already on your website

Got some info from the PartsSelect web site and a short YouTube video about how to replace the socket. (Even at 74 years old I'll be darned if I'll pay for a service call if I think I can do the repair myself). Unfastened all the panel screws, swung down the rear-hinged lower panel carefully, then took a couple of pictures showing which wires went to which side of the light socket -- and to the underside of the turntable because those pulled off by themselves when I lowered the panel). Pried off all the silicone sealer around the socket using my fingers, got the old socket out and replaced it, put the wires back in place, refastened the drop-down panel. It was a very easy, straight-forward task that would have taken <15 minutes were it not for the fact that my old eyes had trouble seeing all the screws, even with a flashlight. Everything works fine now.

Replaced bulb by: 1 pulling plug on microwave to make sure not hot - no power; 2 used needle nose pliers with head part about same size that fit inside of socket; 3 opened pliers and held firm against broken metal part; keeping pressure of pliers against broken metal part of light bulb, slowly unscrewed the broken part from socket using firmly held opened pliers. The rest was a cinch...just screwed in new light bulb, plugged in microwave and viola - there was light once again.

This site was correct in description of what was causing the problem.
I found broken white plastic parts in base of microwave, found they came from switch holder interlock support. Only reason it took me as long as it did is I did not make a diagram of the wires that I had removed.( would help to have easy access to wiring diagrams or have them on the internet ) But on the internet I found a Video by repairclinic.com the photo in the video pointed me in the right direction and allowed me to get my wiring in order the microwave then started up and runs correctly. As to the plastic parts found in the base of the unit, this unit was a floor model and probably had the door opened and slammed shut many times, breaking the Top interlock. Thanks to this site

I unscrewed the bottom plate of microwave oven and took a picture of how the wiring was plugged in and unscrew the motor and put the new one in,it was so easy to do

RATHER EASY. PHILIPS SCREWDRIVER, TORX DRIVER (FOR THE 2 SCREWS SECURING THE GEARMOTOR ITSELF), VERY SMALL SCREWDRIVER TO ASSIST IN DEPRESSING THE DETENTS ON ELECTRICAL CONNECTORS AT THE MOTOR. IF THE MICROWAVE IS ABOVE A STOVE UNIT, IT'S A GOOD IDEA TO PLACE A TOWEL DOWN ON THE STOVETOP TO CATCH ANY WAYWARD SCREW IF ONE HAPPENS TO GET AWAY. (VOICE OF EXPERIENCE)

It was a bit awkward because the microwave is mounted over my stove. I had to twist around and install the bulb and then replace the cover. It was a bit uncomfortable. It took me about 10 minutes to complete.

Simply need a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screen covering the light bulb. all you need to do is unscrew burned out bulb and screw in the new bulb. Much easier to order the bulb in the socket and pull it out the socket and plug in the new socket and bulb. because you have a limited space to work

Put New tray in convection microwave,closed door and it was done.

Piece of cake. One screw to release the dropdown light diffuser. Just remember, the you're screwing the new bulb in from a reverse perspective. Also this site sends the correct part the first time.

Take off top facing over microwave using screwdriver also protection plate for diode and capaitor. Disconnect diode from frame, bracket to capacitor then remove, disconnect wires leaving diode on capacitor for right connection, replace, rewire done.

Remove top grill screws [2] remove grill replace filter put back together.

I measured. I leveled. I mounted hanging bracket and here's where it got tricky because you need two people to raise the microwave into position. I'd stack 2x4's In the back by the wall. I'd stackem in the front on the cabinet top then raise the back and add more. You get it front back front back until it's high enough to snag the bracket. Holes pre drilled raise it on up tighten bolts and poof you're done!! I did loosen the screws that pull the cabinets together and the bottom screw that holes the cabinet on one side. It didn't seem like it needed it the way it slipped in but maybe it slipped in because I did it. Only takes a minute. Use a minute here save an hour there. Go do it! Times a wastin!!

Removed the microwave from above the oven by loosening the two screws above the microwave. As the unit tilted outward lifted up and the whole unit came out all the time feeding the power cord through the cutout for the power cord. After it was out removed the cover and identified the capacitor and made sure it was discharged and removed and replaced the diode. tested before reinstalling and it heated up just fine. Reversed order and reinstalled . Very easy job maybe a second hand to help fish the power cord when installing and removing.