I have an old kitchenmicrowaveunit whose only fault is that the
digital readout is broken. As a neophyte homebrew guy (kits only so
far...Elecraft K2, etc), Is there anything worth salvaging from this unit?

Ever consider getting it fixed?
Only $39.95 at http://www.microwavedisplay.com

Or, for that price or maybe $10 more, buy a NEW one!
(Yes, I know that's not "homebrew", but, after getting a new one,
you could then legitimately scrounge all the parts mentioned in
earlier posts from the old one.

Kids (and adults, too) just LOVE to play with 2-6 of those really-
strong cylindrical magnets strung NS SN NS SN... on a dowell!
Levitation is almost magic!

--
--Myron A. Calhoun; W0PBV
Five boxes preserve our freedoms: soap, ballot, witness, jury, and cartridge
NRA Life Member & Certified Instructor for Rifle, Pistol, & Home Firearm Safety
Also Certified Instructor for the Kansas Concealed-Carry Handgun (CCH) license