
Customers love the 36" Over-the-Range Microwave Accessory Filler Kit for its sleek design and perfect fit. However, some customers have expressed concerns about the improper fit and installation process. They mentioned that the filler kit does not mount flush to the front of the microwave and requires modification of metal panels, which can be challenging for those who are not handy with tools.
The Trim Kit met my need. It is not an inexpensive product but got a great deal for the kit and microwave from the Pacific Sales salesman. I was desperate to replace my 36” microwave, but no one makes them that size anymore. The kit is pretty simple, meant to just fill in the gap. It was easy to install, just a few screws to remove and then re-install. I was a little apprehensive but it looks great!
Posted by Spidey2158
Trim Filler Kit was professionally installed by Best Buy team but has about a 1.5” step to the microwave unit. Standard 12” depth cabinetry. Appears as a seamless transition on website.
Posted by Verified
GE JX36DDS 36" OVER-THE-RANGE MICROWAVE ACCESSORY FILLER KIT (purchased in April, May, and June 2020 from two different home improvement stores) So we read the reviews, but we really did not feel we had a choice as we need this exact size microwave or we would have to modify our cabinets or granite backsplashe. True to the review, the first one shows up and the left side is not drilled correctly and does not fit flush … and it had a dent. So we sent it back (and the microwave as when I unwrapped it I found a cracked handle). Next one finally shows up about four weeks later (32 days) and it, too, did not fit on the left side (when facing the back or looking out from the microwave … exact same issue on a second microwave). It was also dented, and the weld spot was indented/dented. I had to hammer out the dent in the weld spot with a rubber pad and steel ballpeen hammer as well as reshape the bent flange on top. Then the real fun began. I had to drill new holes so the left side would fit properly. Three holes. And, just so you know, three of the screws were standard and one was a star. According to the instructions you only have to remove the one screw on the back , but if you don’t remove the star head screw, you can’t get the back on … and it still does not fit properly. The right side (from the back) only has two screws and a star screw. And although it (right side) fit properly, the star head screw was stripped on deliver and will not hold the panel tight. So, I get out my drill and my file and I make new holes. You cannot drill them because the offset is too close to the track that is already there … you have to file it. Same on both that I ordered (BTW I had to send the microwave back to because of damage in the box, so it was not an anomaly, both were made the same). I finally get the thing to fit properly with modifications (good thing I have a lot of tools and patience). Also, because I had to make this flush, the stop strap for the “gap filler” panels is exposed a on the top of the microwave, meaning, it is NOT under a cabinet space. And then … more fun. Guess what? The back of the gap filler/spacer is not made the same way as the last one (with an empty space against the wall) and has a flush panel on the back. What does that mean? We bought the same microwave and same gap filler because we needed it to fit our cabinets and previous granite cuts. The back has a flush panel which the last one did not. This means my granite was cut for the previous microwave and does not fit this “new” panel. Even though we ordered all the same stuff, it does not fit over the cutout in the granite. Nice. In order to make this fit I had to make the microwave flush with the granite. Time to get out the tools. I had to put a panel in the wall to make everything flush (bringing the microwave out another 1-1/8 inch). It was already out too much if you ask me. Anyhow, bolt boards to the wall, then I remount the bracket and put the whole thing back in. The top did not align flush (pushed out on top by 1/8 inche) and the side has a ¼ inch gape between the sides. It does not fit the same as the last one in any way shape or form except attaching to the microwave with modifications (or you can’t mount it no matter how many times you send it back). It was also 1/8 longer on the bottom than my cabinets, which the last one was not. In the end, I am handy with tools and we felt we had no choice, so I made it work. Some things for you to consider: 1. If you are not handy with tools and modifying metal panels, you are in trouble. 2. If you pay someone to do this, they may charge you the extra time for installation and having to modify the panels (pay for installation and put it on them). 3. You have no choice if you buy this microwave and need the gap filler (putting this under a 36”cabinet). No one else makes it and they all are improperly made … apparently all of them. 4. It is supper expensive for something that does not fit properly and has to be mechanically modified. 5. BTW, none of the holes match up (in your cabinets) correctly on the new microwave. You will have to drill all new holes. My suggestion: 1. Do not buy this microwave if you need the gap filler. Find an alternative for 36” spaces. 2. The microwaves themselves also have poor quality control. Both of the ones I purchased had cheap and striped screw bases. 3. Plan to hire someone who knows how to make the modifications if you do not. 4. Watch them do this as it will be some witchery to make it work and you will want to see how they make this work … for when you figure out later that it did not. AND, inspect the work before they leave … be ready to settle for less than you expected. 5. DO NOT tear apart the packaging for the microwave or gap filler (you WILL be sending one or both back). I had to exchange both and ended up working with what I got in the end (as I did not want to buy new cabinets). Yes, two sets of panels and two different microwaves. Your call but there was zero quality control on the items I purchased. I would not have spent the time to write this if I was not upset at the boondoggle this took to fix and install … and I am pretty handy with tools.
Posted by Brian
The vast majority of our reviews come from verified purchases. Reviews from customers may include My Best Buy members, employees, and Tech Insider Network members (as tagged). Select reviewers may receive discounted products, promotional considerations or entries into drawings for honest, helpful reviews.