How to Replace 316203301 Broil Element on Frigidaire Range — Step-by-Step

Your broiler stopped working right in the middle of getting that perfect golden-brown top on your casserole. The element doesn't glow red anymore, or maybe it heats unevenly — one side gets scorching hot while the other barely warms up. If you've got a Frigidaire, Kenmore, Electrolux, or Crosley range with a dead broil element, this replacement is actually one of the easier oven repairs you can tackle yourself.

The 316203301 broil element (which replaces part numbers 316200600, 316203300, 2210851, and 7316203301) fits dozens of popular models including the GLEF396CSD, GLEFS77CSB, GLEF378ASB, FEF357BBA, and FEF379ACG. Most folks spend $150-200 having a technician do this job, but you can knock it out in 30 minutes with basic tools.

What You Need Before Starting

• Phillips head screwdriver
• 1/4" nut driver or socket wrench
• Work gloves (element brackets can be sharp)
• Towel or blanket to protect floor
• Camera phone (to photograph wire connections)

Repair Time: 25-35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy — Perfect for first-time DIYers

Safety First

Turn off the circuit breaker feeding your range — not just the oven controls. Electric ranges pull 240 volts, and you don't want to be the path to ground. Once the breaker's off, turn an oven knob to confirm there's no power. Let the oven cool completely if you've used it recently. Those broil elements sit at 550°F when active, and the metal housing stays hot for a good hour afterward.

Step 1: Access the Broil Element

Open your oven door fully. The broil element is mounted to the ceiling of the oven cavity — it's that U-shaped or double-loop heating element at the top. Remove all oven racks so you've got clear access. You'll see two screws at the back where the element mounts to the oven wall. Some models have visible screw heads, while others hide them behind small metal covers that pop off.

Step 2: Remove the Mounting Screws

Using your Phillips screwdriver, remove the two mounting screws holding the element bracket to the rear wall. Support the element with your other hand as you remove the second screw — it'll want to drop forward. Once the screws are out, gently pull the element forward about 4-6 inches. You'll see two wire terminals on the back where the element connects to your oven's wiring.

Step 3: Photograph and Disconnect the Wires

Here's where that camera phone comes in handy. Snap a quick photo of which wire goes to which terminal — they're usually not color-coded, and you'll want the photo for reassembly. The wires connect with slip-on terminal connectors. Grip the metal connector (not the wire) and pull straight off. If they're stuck from heat cycling, wiggle gently side-to-side while pulling. Don't yank on the wires themselves or you'll be dealing with a much bigger repair.

Step 4: Install the New 316203301 Element

Take your new element out of the package. The terminals should be clean and ready to go. Push the wire connectors onto the new element's terminals — you'll feel them click into place. Make sure they're seated fully; a loose connection will arc and damage the new element. Reference that photo you took to confirm you've got the right wire on each side. Position the element bracket against the mounting holes and thread in both screws. Tighten them snug but don't overtighten — you're threading into thin metal.

Step 5: Verify Everything's Secure

Give the element a gentle tug to make sure the bracket is tight and the wire connections are solid. Double-check that no wires are touching the element itself or resting where they'll contact the hot metal during operation. Replace your oven racks.

Testing After Installation

Turn your circuit breaker back on. Set your oven to broil and wait 2-3 minutes. The element should glow bright red across its entire length. It'll heat from the center outward, so give it time. Open the door and visually confirm even heating with no dark spots. If one section doesn't glow, you've likely got a loose wire connection — turn everything off and reseat those terminals. Once it's glowing evenly, you're back in business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this element fit my Kenmore range even though it says Frigidaire?

Yes — Kenmore doesn't manufacture appliances; they rebrand units made by others. Many Kenmore ranges (especially Elite models from 2005-2020) use Frigidaire components. The 316203301 fits Kenmore models 790.9603, 790.9619, and dozens more. Check the compatible models list or measure your old element: it should be roughly 16 inches wide with terminals spaced about 3 inches apart.

How do I know if my broil element is actually bad?

Set your oven to broil and watch the element for 3-4 minutes. A working element glows bright red along its entire length. If it doesn't heat at all, has dark sections that won't glow, or shows visible breaks or blistering in the metal, it's failed. You can also test it with a multimeter — disconnect it and check for continuity. A good element reads 15-30 ohms; infinity means it's open and needs replacement.

Can I use my oven normally while waiting for the part to arrive?

Absolutely. The bake element (on the bottom) operates independently from the broil element (on top). You can bake, roast, and use all regular oven functions — you just won't have broiling capability until you replace the top element. Keep using your oven as normal for everything except broiling.