How to replace a range solid surface element

Unplug the range or shut off the circuit breaker for the range.

Open the oven door completely to access the screws under the front lip of the cooktop. Remove the screws and set them aside. Remove any side trim pieces, if necessary.

Carefully lift the front edge of the cooktop and prop it open. Place the prop where it's steady so the cooktop won't fall. 

Take a digital picture of the wires attached to the solid surface element or tag them with labeled masking tape so you can connect them correctly to the new element.  Carefully remove the wires from the element.

Remove the screws that secure the mounting bracket to the sides of the solid surface  element.  Pull the mounting bracket off the disc heating element and set it aside.

Pull the surface element up and out of the top of the cooktop.

Lower the new disc heating element into place in the cooktop. Properly position the mounting bracket on the solid surface heating element and secure it with the mounting screws. Firmly tighten the screws.

Using the digital image or marked tape as a guide, carefully connect the wires to the new element.

Carefully remove the prop that's supporting the cooktop and lower the cooktop into place.  Replace the mounting screws in the front lip of the cooktop and in any trim you removed.

Plug the range back into the electrical wall outlet or turn on the circuit breaker. If you pulled out the range to unplug it, push the range into position and ensure that the rear leveling foot is properly engaged in the anti-tip bracket.