My 5 year old Kenmore Super Capacity gas dryer (model #110.72602101) suddenly started taking several cycles to dry a load of clothes. I checked the vent and it is not clogged. There is a plug on the front of the dryer I pulled off and watched the flame ignite and it stayed burning until the timer got to about 10 minutes left on the cycle. I opened the dryer and the clothes were still wet and the dryer was not hot on the inside. Sometimes the dryer heats and sometimes it doesn't. Any ideas of what the problem might be would be greatly appreciated and if you know the best way to open the dryer to clean and check things on the inside.

Sounds like you are not getting a good air flow. The vent may appear clear from the back but consider getting a vent cleaning rod, bristly thing. Also check the exhaust tube going outside. These exhausts evetually plug, especially at the terminbation on the outside wall.

ballengerb1 is correct. You need to check the vent all the way through. Any blockage will decrease air flow. One way to check is to disconnect the vent from the dryer and run 1 load with it disconnected. If it dryed clothes you know where your problem is.

esquire1- I already tried disconnecting the vent and running the dryer. When it finished, the load was still damp and cold. I don't think it has anything to do with the vent.

Have you checked the blower motor? Is it working and moving the hot air through

Doug, I think you might be on to something! I didn't think about the air blowing into the drum! I will check that. Thanks!

Post back with results. I just really think it's airflow. Good Luck