[mrfixitri]

I have an older Maytag stack unit (SE1000) that the electric dryer takes too long to dry or the machine shuts off prematurely before the clothes completely dry, when set on the auto setting. There is plenty of power and plenty of heat. It just doesn't seem to run long enough. I have changed the exhaust pipe and sucked out every possible piece of lint inside and out. Still takes too long. I've cleaned off the dual-bar sensor inside the dryer cabinet but I don't know whether it's working or not - or even how to test it. It does however run OK on "Timed Dry." What can I replace? Thanks, Larry

[EPMiller]

I am a bit out on a limb here as I have not worked on those Maytags, but I have worked on plenty of others.

Did you disassemble the dryer when you cleaned the lint out? Just because you couldn't see it from the lint filter or the exhaust duct doesn't mean that it's clear. I've seen socks in fans. Run the dryer on no heat and see if there is plenty of air flow out the vent. That at least gives a rough idea of the internal state of things. Next check all the electrical connections in the wiring to the sensor. A loose spade connector can cause the symptoms you describe. Also bad contacts in the timer can do it. Beyond that I have to see the schematic.

[mrfixitri]

Thanks EPMiller. I will first crawl back there to determine once and for all that there are no obstructions. I thought it may be a sensor or thermostat of some sort that could be malfunctioning. Originally, I had a problem of no heat at all. I then replaced a component (heat relay switch?) and voilà - we had heat. But now it takes too long to dry. I did replace the exhaust pipe and performed a thorough vacuuming. But I should look at the back of the unit before getting into replacing anymore components. Thx again - Larry