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DewiM5
Mar 7, 2007, 01:24 PM
My kenmore dryer work's but don't heat up no more ? Why

Lowtax4eva
Mar 7, 2007, 01:32 PM
The heating circuit is dead, it might be just an internal fuse or a broken wire. No way to know for sure without opening it up

stew_1962
Mar 7, 2007, 04:48 PM
If your electrical supply is fuses, check that you have 110VAC between the hot leg and neutral of each phase at the plug with a meter. If not, replace cartridge fuses with the same size at the fuse panel.

If your electrical supply is circuit breakers, turn off, then on.

Now, if still no heat, then you have to open it up, as lowtax4eva notes. Make sure the unit is unplugged before you begin. Open the cabinet by removing about a dozen screws form the back.

Hmmm, there is an internal fuse in some models - you might need to repost your model number so we can help you with that.

As you follow the rest of this, inspect the inside for any broken or burned wires, 220VAC has a tendency when things go wrong in there to burn wires.

You can visually check the heating element, it is inside a duct that is fastened to the back of the drum. One screw must be removed, but to get to it, you have to open the top.

This is accomplished by inserting a thin putty knife in the crack between the top and the fron, about an inch in from the sides. Push in slightly, you are compressing a clip. Pull up on the top to tilt back. The screw holding the clip is in the rear, remove it.

The duct assembly can be lifted from the "ears" that hold it up. 4 more screws hold the element in the duct. You will have to remove 2 wires to remove this assembly. Note positions of these 2 wires.

Inspect the coil, if it is faulty, it will be broken. If broken, you will need to replace this assembly. Parts for your model can be found on the internet at several locations. Write down the model number (something like: 110.xxxxxxxxxx). This will allow you to buy a new one. Don't throw away the old one just yet, you have to reuse the thermostat, it is held in on by the electrical connection and a clip.

Installation is the reverse of the above.

If the element is good, the problem is likely one of the two thermostats in the duct you have removed. You need an ohm meter to test these. If you get this far and it's not the element, we can help you test these. Let us know.

Regards,
Stew

doug238
Mar 24, 2007, 10:46 PM
Diagnostic Guide Link
I found service tech diagnostic guides (PDF format) during an online search. This includes instructions on putting the dryer into test mode in order to check switches, etc. Here are the links:

Gas Dryer:
http://www.servicematters.com/docs/wiring/Tech%20Sheet%20-%203980053.pdf

Electric Dryer:
http://www.servicematters.com/docs/wiring/Tech%20Sheet%20-%203979705.pdf

RalphS
Apr 7, 2007, 11:29 PM
my kenmore dryer work's but don't heat up no more ? why
Good answers, but we still don't know if this is a gas or 220V electric dryer! :confused:
In our area, the Mid-West, 95% are gas dryers, I know in many of the Southern and rural areas, electric dryers are more prevalent.
Also, it's always helpful if a model number is given when trying to diagnose a problem!

SueZQGarland
Sep 19, 2012, 08:39 PM
I don't have an answer but I have the same problem... it is a Kenmore electric dryer. We recently replaced the heating element and a fuse and we just replaced the Thermal Cut Out Kit for Whirlpool Sears 3399848, 279816. It was compatible with 3977393 part that was taken off. But the darn thing STILL won't work. I really do not want to call a repair person to come out he will charge out the wahzoo!

Anyone have other suggestions? I am going to try what is listed above. Thanks.. any help is appreciated!