I am changing out a 4 wire 3 speed fan switch (K.T.E. 3089) that went bad for a for a ZingEar ZE208S. Are the terminals wired the same? Does the L on one terminal on the switches stand for line or load?

Thanks,
CB

No, not necessarily, Fan switches switch a number of ways, The wires need to be installed in same position, and the switch must have same switching combinations.
If fan worked, and switch broke, was replaced, and same wire colors went to correct L, 1, 2, 3, and it doesn't work, it is likely wrong switch, and correct one will need to be obtained.

No way to know with the model numbers. You need to find a switch that has the same contact combinations.

http://www.ceiling-fans-n-more.com/c...and-repair.php

What went wrong with the old pullchain?