Proper Operation
Learn how your appliance is supposed to operate so you can determine if it is malfunctioning.

• Dryer Controls
• Moving Air
• Automatic Cycles
• Moisture Sensor
• Even Heat Control
• Rotating Drum
• Generating Heat
• Dryer Sounds

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Replacing the Start Switch

The start switch is a momentary contact, NO (normally open) switch. While pressed, the start switch allows power to the drive motor to start it running. While running, the motor's centrifugal switch assures power to the motor to keep it running. If the current to the motor is interrupted for any reason, the start switch must be pushed again to restart the dryer.

This switch is usually very reliable but can fail in two ways; its contacts can short and become permanently closed or they can become permanently open. If shorted, it can allow the dryer to run even without pressing the start button and sometimes even allow the timer to advance through OFF settings between cycles.

If the dryer won't start and the power, safety fuses, the door switch and the timer have all been checked, check the start switch contacts for being permanently open.

Checking the Start Switch

1. Collect a 1/4" or 5/16" nutdriver and an ohmmeter.
2. UNPLUG THE DRYER.
3. Pull the dryer away from the wall far enough to get behind it.
4. Remove the screws securing the control console rear access panel and set it aside.
5. Locate the start switch behind the start button on the front of the console.
7. (Figure 1) Your switch may only have the "NO" and "CO" terminals. The "NO" (normally open) will be stamped on the wire connected to the "NO" terminal.
8. Disconnect the wire marked "CO" (common).
9. Set the ohmmeter to the lowest resistance scale and place the probes across the "CO" and "NO" terminals. The ohmmeter should show an open circuit (doesn't move). When you push the start switch in, the resistance should be zero.
10. Place the probes across "CO" and "C" if you have the third terminal on your switch. The ohmmeter should indicate zero resistance. When you push the start switch in, the ohmmeter should indicate an open circuit.
11. If these readings are not obtained, use the appliance model number to order the correct replacement . Install the new switch and reassemble the dryer. Test for proper operation.

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