Dryer won't heat up......


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Old 04-28-07, 07:27 AM
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Dryer won't heat up......

I have a Kenmore dryer,model # 87581110,serial # M54527114 that will not heat up. The dryer tumbles,but there is no heat. The element turns red, then fades out.
 
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Old 04-28-07, 08:29 AM
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Hello eagle37372 and Welcome into the Gas Appliances topic.

Most common cause, for the problem description, is one of the two solenoids, both located on top of the gas control valve, is defective.

All the information needed is contained within the dryer help sticky note here: http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=159481

Because the problem description is so common, and the question is posted so often, it may be helpful to post much of that information here once again for all members reading this thread...

Defective solenoids are sold in a matched part of two. Both must be replaced at the same time. They are not all that difficult to replace nor expensive either. And they can be replaced as a do it yourself task....

However, some cautions must be considered.

BE SURE the electrical power to the machine is turned OFF or the electrical cord is removed from the electrical wall outlet receptacle FIRST.

On most machines, the entire gas valve must be removed first. So the tiny gas shut off valve no the gas supply pipe MUST be shut off first. Turn the tiny valve lever on the shut off valve, which is located to the right side of the control valve, off. Lever only turns 1/4 turn so it crosses the pipe and is not in-line with the pipe.

Then you will need to unscrew the hex nut (union coupling) on the gas supply pipe next to the control valve and just passed the shut off valve. That hex nut (union coupling) turns CLOCK WISE to unscrew it. Not counter clock wise like any other threaded connection. Clock wise unscrews it.

Once that is done, remove all screws (usually 3 or 4) that secure the plate that holds the entire gas control valve assembly to the machines frame. Once all those screws are removed and all quick disconnect wires are removed, carefully remove the entire gas control valve assembly from the dryer.

Remove the solenoid cover securing hold down plate. Lift off the two solenoids and replace them with the two new solenoids. Reinstall the hold down cover plate and the screws.

The solenoids are not interchangeable. There is no need to be concerned with getting them mixed up.... However, be sure to get the correct solenoids for the brand and model.

Once the new solenoids are installed, reinstall the gas control valve exactly as it was, prior to removal. Being careful not to bang or bump that glow coil (HSI) during removal or installation. HSI's are fragile and break easily...

Once the gas control valve plate is reinstalled and screwed down, reconnect the gas supply pipe. Turn the union hex nut on first by hand threading it on to get threads started. Doing so helps to avoid cross threading the threads.

Once that is done, securely tighten the hex nut (union coupling). Turn that tiny shut off valve lever on and test for gas leaks using leak test soap. No leaks must exist. If any do exist, fix it!

Reconnect all quick disconnect wires to the solenoids. Test the dryer. If repairs are done correctly, the dryer will operate correctly...

Retail appliance parts dealers can also help determine what the most likely possible problem may be. They will need the make, model and serial numbers. Appliance parts dealers are an excellent source for original replacement parts and problem resolving matters. Dealers are listed in the phone book under appliances.

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