Sharp R4A46 Microwave Turntable Is Not Turning

Built-up Food

• If your Sharp R4A46 microwave turntable is not turning, see if the components and the microwave itself are dirty. Built-up food and liquids can cause the turntable to stick in place. Remove the cooking tray and plastic turntable guide, and hand wash it with warm, soapy water. The turntable guide is the circular component with wheels. Clean the base of the microwave and the carousel itself with a damp cloth. If the microwave is extremely dirty, place a bowl of 2 or 3 cups of water, 1 tsp. of liquid detergent and lemon juice in the microwave. Run the microwave for about three minutes. Wipe off the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth.

Bushings

• The bushings are the plastic drives on which the cooking tray sit. This assembly has plastic components. If these plastic components break off or become extremely worn, the turntable won't turn anymore. Examine the bushings. Use a magnifying glass if you can't closely examine them. Use a cotton swab or small cloth to clean off the bushings if food is stuck to them. If the bushings are broken, you must replace them.

Motor

• The carousel has a motor that rotates the turntable. This motor can get stuck, especially if you haven't used the microwave for a while. Disconnect the microwave from the power source, and remove the base plate of the microwave. Rotate the microwave motor until it turns freely. If it remains stuck, or if the motor is corroded or burned out, you need a new one. The motor often emits an electrical, burning smell when it's burned out.

Positioning/Guide

• You must correctly position the Sharp R4A46 cooking tray in the grooves of the carousel. You must also place the turntable guide in the groove that runs along the base of the microwave. If you do not, your turntable won't turn. Remove the cooking plate, and reposition the guide and tray. Turn on the microwave. If the cooking guide breaks, you must get a new one. Order the part from an authorized Sharp parts dealer.