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    fosent's Avatar
    fosent Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Dec 31, 2010, 11:01 PM
    Why does my dryer not turn on unless I hold the start button
    My Kenmore 80 series dryer model 110 79812990 won't run unless I hold down the start button. The dryer heats up fine. There are no unusual noises from the motor or any parts of the dryer. The drum light comes on when the door is opened and shuts off when closed. The buzzer sounds when I press the start button while the timer is in the off position. I have replaced the thermal fuse and made sure all of the vents are clear of lint. The dryer works normally as long as I hold the start button in. Could it be the start button? Anything else I should check. Thank you.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #2

    Jan 1, 2011, 10:24 AM
    There is a start/run relay in the circuit. Pushing the button locks the relay closed to keep the dryer running until you open the door or the timer shuts it off. In many new dryers the relay and button are combined, in some the button is separate from the relay. Look up the parts manual on sears web site and it will show what is needed. Fairly simple fix, trip the breaker, remove the timer/control panel, unclip or unscrew the relay or start button and replace. Turn the breaker back on. Hope this helps and good luck!
    fosent's Avatar
    fosent Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Jan 1, 2011, 03:12 PM
    I will do what you suggest and let you know when it is fixed. Thank you very much and have a Healthy and prosperous New Year.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #4

    Jan 1, 2011, 03:34 PM
    Comment on fosent's post
    Same to you and yours. If my assistance has been helpful, you can "tip" me by checking YES on the "is this helpful" link. Thanks, brian
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    fosent Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #5

    Jan 3, 2011, 12:48 PM
    The PTS switch was checked and it is functional. Could the motor have some sort of relay built in that maybe bad? Thanks in advance.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #6

    Jan 3, 2011, 03:14 PM
    Comment on fosent's post
    Not usually, they will switch off if the split phase switch is bad. Did the relay latch or did you just test the push button?
    fosent's Avatar
    fosent Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #7

    Jan 3, 2011, 03:39 PM
    I only tested the pts switch for current with an ohs meter. There does not seem to be a separate relay for the pts button. I don't know what a split phase switch is or its location. Thanks again.
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #8

    Jan 3, 2011, 04:39 PM
    The split phase switch is on the motor but since everything works when you hold the start button down, I don't think that's the problem. Have you priced a PTS switch?
    fosent's Avatar
    fosent Posts: 5, Reputation: 1
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    #9

    Jan 3, 2011, 06:29 PM
    Yes, it's around $20.00 here at the local parts store and online $15.00 with shipping. That's where the PTS switch was tested.
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