How to Replace 74004053 Range Top Burner Spark Igniter on Maytag Whirlpool Jenn-Air Gas Range — Step-by-Step

Your stovetop burner clicks continuously but won't light. Or maybe it glows orange for 30 seconds then nothing happens — the gas never ignites. I've seen this exact issue on hundreds of Maytag, Whirlpool, and Jenn-Air gas ranges, and 9 times out of 10 it's a failed spark igniter like the 74004053.

This white ceramic igniter sits right beside your burner and creates the spark that lights the gas. When it fails, you'll hear clicking with no ignition, or worse — you'll smell gas building up while nothing lights. The good news? You can replace this yourself in about 20 minutes with just a screwdriver.

What You Need Before Starting

Here's what you'll need for this repair:

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver (for grate removal)
• Needle-nose pliers (optional, helps with wire connections)
• Flashlight or phone light
• Towel or cloth to protect cooktop surface

Repair Time: 15-25 minutes

Difficulty: Easy — No special skills required

Safety First

Turn off the gas supply valve behind or beneath your range before starting. If you can't access the shutoff valve, turn off the gas at your home's main supply. Never work on a gas appliance with the gas on — even if the range is unplugged, gas can still flow. Open a window for ventilation and don't attempt this repair if you smell a strong gas odor (call a professional immediately).

Step 1: Remove the Burner Grates and Caps

Lift off all the burner grates from your cooktop. Then remove the burner caps — these are the round metal pieces that sit directly on top of each burner base. On most Maytag and Whirlpool ranges, they just lift straight up. Set everything aside on a towel to avoid scratching your countertop.

Step 2: Locate and Remove the Burner Head

The burner head is the round piece with small flame ports around the edge. It typically lifts straight up, though some models have a small screw holding it in place (check the center). Once removed, you'll see the igniter — it's the white ceramic piece sticking up next to where the gas comes out. This is part number 74004053.

Step 3: Disconnect the Failed Igniter

The igniter has a wire connector underneath the cooktop. You'll need to either lift the entire cooktop (some models have hinges at the back) or reach under through the burner opening. Grasp the wire connector — not the wire itself — and pull straight to disconnect. The igniter is usually held by a metal bracket with one or two screws. Remove these screws and lift out the old igniter.

Step 4: Install the New 74004053 Igniter

Position the new igniter in the same spot where the old one sat. The ceramic tip should stick up about 1/8 inch above the burner base — this gap is critical for proper sparking. Secure it with the bracket screws, but don't overtighten (ceramic can crack). Connect the wire harness by pushing firmly until you hear a click.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Replace the burner head, making sure it sits flat and the igniter tip is positioned in the gap next to the burner ports. Put the burner cap back on, then the grate. Turn the gas back on and test the burner. You should hear a clicking sound and see a spark within 1-2 seconds, followed by the gas igniting. If it clicks but doesn't spark, check that the igniter tip isn't touching metal — it needs that small air gap.

Testing After Installation

Test all burners, not just the one you repaired. Sometimes moisture or grease can affect multiple igniters. Each burner should light within 3-4 seconds of turning the knob. If one burner lights but another doesn't, that igniter may need replacement too. Clean around all the igniter tips with a dry toothbrush — food debris can prevent sparking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this igniter work on my specific range model?

The 74004053 fits hundreds of models including Maytag AGR4412ADB, AGR5712ADQ, Whirlpool, Jenn-Air, Magic Chef 31203SAA, and Amana gas ranges. It replaces part numbers AP4093621, PS2082000, 704111, 74004053VP, and 7432P100-60. Check your model number (usually on a sticker inside the door or drawer) against the compatibility list on the product page.

Why does my burner click continuously but never light?

Continuous clicking with no spark means the igniter is either cracked, dirty, or moisture has gotten into the connection. A glowing igniter that doesn't light the gas is actually a different problem — that's usually the oven igniter (not this part) or a gas flow issue. For top burners, if you hear clicks but see no spark at all, this 74004053 replacement will fix it.

Can I replace just one igniter or do I need to do all of them?

You only need to replace the failed igniter. However, if your range is 8+ years old and one igniter failed, others may be close behind. Some people replace all igniters at once to avoid repeating this repair in six months. The 74004053 is inexpensive enough that doing multiples isn't a bad preventive measure, but it's not required.