Question about Tappan Stove

[jethowl]

Hello all,
I have a question for you knowledgeable folk. When did Tappan start making electric spark ignition standard on their gas ranges?
I have recently come across a gorgeous avocado green gas Tappan for sale, it is the stove of my dreams, but the owner thinks it may have pilot lights (but isn't sure, as it's not currently in use). My house is a bit drafty, and hot as heck in the summer already, and pilot lights are just something I'd like to avoid. I know some people love them, but I've decided against them. Anyway, the current owner of this stove doesn't know the date of manufacture, but judging by the colour and style of the clock (similar to my 1963 Frigidaire Flair) I'd say late 1960's?
If anyone could help me out, I'd really appreciate it! Thanks!

 

[vacerator]

Pilotless

ignition came out around 1975. Possibly '74 across the line. I've seen it on avocado, harvest gold, and copper tone Tappan ranges as well as white of course.
Without a photo, I can tell you that if the front knob control panel is slanted on a 45 degree angle up under the cook top lid, it likely has pilots. Except on a 36, or 40 inch range with a center griddle.
My moms '72 T.O.L Tappan had pilots, burner with a brain, electric warming shelf, and electronic oven ignitor which was troublesome when it was new. A few service calls to get it working properly.
If the front control panel has the knobs at 90 degrees facing front, it may have electric ignition. This was the deluxe model's design even in 1968. Those may have it. I've never had the opportunity to see on in person. Only in magazine photos.

 

[jethowl]

Thanks!

Vacerator, that is very helpful! Thank you!
For reference, here is the ad: http://rochester.craigslist.org/app/5576909316.html
It appears that the front control panel is at a 90 degree angle... unless I'm mistaken? Really love this stove.

 

[goatfarmer]

I'm thinking that has pilot lights. You can see what appears to be a small vent hole, between the burners.

 

[vacerator]

Yes, it has the easy pilot light vent holes.

Jaquie, that's a beautifull range!! Continuous clean oven too! Maybe you can somehow eleviate the draft in your kitchen?
My aunt had the next lower model with the slanted front console for 30 years and loved how it baked.

 

[vacerator]

Oh Jaquie,

I just had an idea! Get that Tappan, and keep burner covers over them to stop the breeze. Even maybe some nice retro sauce pan lids.

 

[jethowl]

Vacerator, I knowwwww! Love it.
That is an idea with the burner covers... hmm. I'll talk to "the boss" and see what he thinks
Thank you!! Really appreciate the help/advice!

 

[jethowl]

Thanks GoatFarmer. I hadn't noticed the holes. Eagle eyes!

 

[luxflairguy]

A standing pilot cook top needs AIR to keep the top cool. Burner covers are a bad idea. It would focus all too much heat under the cook top and possibly damage the enamel. That's my 2 cents worth! Greg

 

[vacerator]

Your welcome Jaquie,

I bet those vent holes will allow enough air in, and heat out, or you can leave one rear burner uncovered, or shim them up with a teaspoon handle for example, or other small thing.
Usually a solution to most small issues. Even big issues.
I bet the enamel on that vintage Tappan is much thicker than todays ranges. Most are only painted steel anyway in the low price field like Frigidaire.