The code used to allow us to install 3 wire range and dyer outlets in certain locations.
which would mean you'd be tying the neutral to the ground at the oven
No the code did not allow that, what they did allow was using the neutral as the grounding means.
You say 'hey thats the same thing'. It's close to the same thing but it requires that the conductor be insulated.
Now the code will not let us install 3 wire range and dryer outlets. But existing ones can remain so when the customer gets a new range they need to buy a power cord that fits the outlet they have and they have to either bond or un-bond the neutral to frame.
