jem83

I apologize: I made a newbie mistake. The kiln sitter trigger wasn't engaged and that is why it wouldn't power on. I figured that out last night and was able to get it going, which was exciting! I turned it off after a few minutes, but at least I know it works, and will try a basic test fire soon. However, that element certainly looks like it will need replacing, even if it's currently working, so I may start informing myself on that process. I downloaded the circuitry diagram: thanks so much for unearthing that. I am fairly certain the model is 1193S and so yes, the diagram is correct. Do you think that replacing the element makes sense, given what you see in the pic above? 

The elements may or may not be due for replacement. The only way to know for sure is to measure their resistance with a meter. Once the resistance is off by 10 % from new they're due for replacement. If you don't have a meter, pick up a cheap one at the hardware store or Amazon. Any digital meter that has an Ohms setting will work.  If you put in a new element without replacing that brick then the new element will just sag like the old one.

You have the cones appropriate for your target temperature of your glaze and bisque firing?
Kiln wash the parts that the cone will sit on. 
Good luck. 
Pin that element before torning on again. There was a demo maybe by @Min on just how to do this.
@PeterH is a great researcher   hopefully he can find it.

I apologize: I made a newbie mistake. The kiln sitter trigger wasn't engaged and that is why it wouldn't power on. I figured that out last night and was able to get it going, which was exciting! I turned it off after a few minutes, but at least I know it works, and will try a basic test fire soon. However, that element certainly looks like it will need replacing, even if it's currently working, so I may start informing myself on that process. I downloaded the circuitry diagram: thanks so much for unearthing that. I am fairly certain the model is 1193S and so yes, the diagram is correct. Do you think that replacing the element makes sense, given what you see in the pic above? 

The elements cannot touch like that. You'll need to separate them and pin the upper one into place so that it can't sag. The element is probably pretty brittle, so you'll want to heat it with a torch and use pliers to manipulate it. At some point you'll want to replace that brick, because pins can only do so much. 

@jem83 hi, 
What a cute little kiln you've found, looks as good as brand new! Happy firings!