I have a similar unit and I removed the outside of the door by loosening two flat head screws on the narrow where the handle is located. There are several screws yet holding the outside plastic housing too. Once these are removed the plastic door will come off. Then the handle will be accessible.
The same issue started with my oven too and I replaced the original handle with larger screws and using a high quality plastic glue.
This held for a while. The plastic door cover seemed to have changed dimensions during its life and warped. I ordered a new door and it lasted a short while. I then asked for a new door under warranty.
Bottom line they wouldn't sent a new cover but they returned my money. Apparently the doors all had crappy plastic issues. Currently we are using the microwave with out the door front. It still works like new after 10 years though.
SOURCE: Disassembling door to replace plastic outer panel - how to remove handle
You can visit http://www3.sears.com/ (the 3 is correct) You will need to enter your full model number (not just 61709) and you can see expolded view diagrams which can be very helpful. Chances are the panels separate as shown in the photo I have attached below. Panel replacement can usually be done without removing the door from the microwave. In cases where it is felt that door removal is necessary, I recommend detaching the door from the hinges. I generally do not advise removing the hinges from the microwave. Whenever the hinges are removed, great care must be taken to put them back in the very same position they were in. Failure to do so can cause microwave leakage, which can cause risk of skin burns, fire, and disruption nearby electronic devices.
SOURCE: Kenmore Microwave Oven Serial # 60507693 Model# 721 89940490
You need to remove the door to mount in a new handle, you can get replacement here.
SOURCE: Getting door frame apart to install new handle
If you're replacing the handle, then order the choke cover..It's the piece on the inside of the door that covers the handle screws. No matter how carefull you are, it is almost guaranteed to break. If you break it, then you have one, and if not, send it back. DO NOT OPERATE MICRO WITHOUT CHOKE COVER.
SOURCE: Kenmore mirowave # 72162643200 handle is broken
I have the exact same problem and the cost for a tech to replace the door is $80 less than buying a new one. They have to remove the unit from the cabinets and pull off the exterior box to unscrew the door hinge. Mine is only 3 years old. I also bought a new oven range. Never really use it. Decided it was time to use the self cleaning. It did not work. $280 to put a new board in. 4 months later I went to clean it and again it did not work. The f*^ing thing only cost $500. Decided Easy off will have to do. Kenmore s*&ks
As for the door... I very CAREFULLY used super glue/ gel and it did the job!
SOURCE: how to change the handle
To access the door handle mounting screws, you have to remove the inner door panel that goes around the perimeter of the glass. You can use a small screwdriver to simply pry the plastic up and work your way gradually around the perimiter of the glass. Most microwave ovens have grooves in the panel that you can insert the screwdriver into. Use care not to pry against the glass. The glass is tempered and also has an RF shield that prevents harmful microwaves from potentially harming the consumer. If you break the glass, you will need to purchase a new door.
The door handle screws are located behind the inner panel. Simply remove the broken handle and install the new one. Re-insert the inner door panel carefully and gradually work your way around the perimeter of the door glass and make sure it snaps back into place.
If you have questions, please let me know. I hope you find this information helpful.
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