i get a faint gas smell near my range when the oven is preheating, but it goes away after it lights.

Diagnosis

The scent of gas during the preheating phase of a GE JGBS66REKSS range typically stems from one of two scenarios: a standard "purge" of the oven burner tube or a slow leak at the oven burner valve assembly. When you turn the oven dial to a temperature, the gas valve opens immediately, but the igniter (the glow-bar element) takes several seconds to reach the required temperature to ignite the gas. During this delay, a small amount of gas fills the burner tube. If the burner tube is slightly oversized or the vent is obstructed, that gas can drift out from under the range before the flame catches, creating a faint smell. However, if the smell persists for more than 5-10 seconds or is detectable even after the oven has reached temperature, you likely have a leak at the gas manifold or the oven burner valve connection. This is often caused by a degraded seal or a loose fitting on the burner tube where it seats into the valve. You can confirm this by using a non-corrosive leak detection solution; if you see growing bubbles at the connection point while the oven is attempting to ignite, the seal has failed. If no bubbles appear and the smell vanishes the moment the "click" or flame-up occurs, it is likely a venting issue rather than a dangerous leak.

How to Fix It

To resolve a minor leak or ensure the burner is igniting efficiently, follow these precise steps to inspect and tighten the oven gas assembly:

1. Disconnect the range from the power source and shut off the main gas supply valve located behind the unit.
2. Pull the range away from the wall to gain full access to the rear chassis.
3. Remove the lower kick plate (toe kick) and the rear access panel using a 1/4" nut driver.
4. Locate the oven burner valve—this is the primary gas control knob assembly that leads to the large burner tube at the bottom of the oven cavity.
5. Apply a mixture of 50% dish soap and 50% water to the connection point where the burner tube slides into the valve body.
6. Slowly turn the gas supply back on and rotate the oven knob to a preheat setting. Watch the soapy solution closely.
7. If bubbles form, use a 7/16" or 1/2" wrench (depending on the specific vintage of the JGBS66REKSS valve) to gently tighten the mounting nut on the burner tube. Do not overtighten, as the cast aluminum housing can crack.
8. Wipe away all soap residue with a damp cloth to prevent moisture from corroding the valve over time.
9. Push the range back into place, ensuring the flexible gas connector is not kinked or pinched against the wall.

If That Didn't Work

• Replace the Oven Igniter: If the igniter is failing or "sluggish," it takes longer to reach the ignition temperature. This allows more gas to accumulate in the burner tube before lighting, increasing the smell. Replace the glow-bar igniter (Part #WB13K10036 or similar) to ensure a faster, cleaner light-off.
• Inspect the Burner Tube for Corrosion: Examine the burner tube for small pinholes or "flaking" caused by oxidation. If the tube is rusted through, gas will leak out of the sides of the pipe before it