one of my large burners clicks forever and won't light, the others work fine.

Diagnosis

This issue is typically caused by a failure in the ignition circuit specifically tied to that burner's electrode. When a burner clicks continuously, the spark module is receiving a signal to ignite, but it is not detecting the "flame rectification" signal that tells the module the burner has successfully lit. Because the other burners function normally, the main spark module is healthy, meaning the fault is isolated to the specific circuit, the electrode, or the burner cap of that single large burner. The most common root cause is a gap in the electrical path between the igniter electrode and the burner head. If the burner cap is slightly skewed, or if a buildup of carbonized food and grease has created an insulating layer, the spark cannot jump effectively to the gas port. In some cases, the electrode itself has become bent or corroded, increasing the gap distance beyond the spark module's capacity to bridge, causing the system to cycle the igniter indefinitely in an attempt to achieve ignition.

How to Fix It

To resolve the continuous clicking on your Maytag MER7700LZ, follow these precise steps to restore the electrical ground and clear the ignition path:

1. Power Down: For safety, disconnect the range from the power source or flip the circuit breaker. While the clicking is an electrical issue, you will be working near gas lines.
2. Remove the Burner Cap: Lift the large burner cap straight up. Inspect the underside of the cap for any charred residue or food spills. Use a soft toothbrush and a mixture of warm water and mild soap to scrub the underside of the cap and the top of the burner base.
3. Clear the Igniter Port: Locate the small white ceramic igniter electrode next to the burner. Use a needle or a thin piece of wire to gently clear any debris from the small hole in the burner head where the spark is supposed to jump.
4. Inspect Electrode Alignment: Check the distance between the tip of the ceramic electrode and the burner base. The gap should be approximately 1/8 inch. If the electrode is bent outward, gently nudge it back toward the burner head using needle-nose pliers.
5. Dry and Reset: Use a microfiber cloth or a blow dryer on a cool setting to ensure the electrode and the burner base are completely dry. Moisture can cause the spark to "leak" or ground out before reaching the gas port.
6. Reseat the Cap: Place the burner cap back on, ensuring it is perfectly centered and flush. A cap that is off by even a millimeter can prevent the spark from grounding, leading to continuous clicking.

If That Didn't Work

• Replace the Spark Electrode: If the ceramic insulation on the electrode is cracked or shows a "burn trail" (a thin black line running down the side), the spark is leaking to the chassis rather than jumping to the burner. You will need to replace the electrode assembly. Ensure the wiring harness is securely clipped to avoid vibration-induced shorts.
• Test the Infinite Switch/Control Knob: If the clicking starts the moment you turn the knob and doesn't stop even when the burner is manually lit, the internal contact in the control switch may be fused. Disconnect the range and use a multimeter to check for continuity across the switch terminals; a constant "closed" reading when the knob is off indicates a failed switch.
• Check the Wiring Harness: Inspect the wiring leading from the spark module to the specific burner. Look for signs of melted insulation or rodent damage. A pinched wire that is intermittently grounding against the range frame can trick the module into a continuous ignition cycle.
• Clean the Burner Base Orifice: If the spark is visible but no gas is flowing, the burner will never "sense" the flame. Use a dedicated orifice cleaning tool to ensure the gas port is not clogged with boiled-over liquids, which prevents the flame from reaching the electrode.

Heads Up

• Avoid Abrasives: Never use steel wool or heavy-duty scouring pads on the ceramic igniter; scratching the porcelain can create a path for electricity to leak, causing the burner to fail again.
• Avoid Over-tightening: When replacing electrodes or switches, do not over-torque the screws. The chassis of the MER7700LZ is thin-gauge steel and can strip easily.
• Gas Safety: If you smell a strong scent of gas while the burner is clicking, immediately turn off the main gas valve and ventilate the room before attempting any electrical repairs.
• Regular Maintenance: To prevent this in the future, wipe the burner heads immediately after spills. Sugar-based spills (like pasta water) harden into a ceramic-like glaze that blocks the ignition spark.