I have a Maytag LDG410 that will only stay lit for about a 40-60 seconds before going off, it remains off for about a minute then goes through two clicks and the ignitor comes back on, and lights the burner again. It goes through this process over and over again, but does not dry very effectively.

Initially the dryer wasn't lighting at all, so I replaced the ignitor and this took care of that issue. In reading the forums there was talk that the coils may be going bad and that after running for a little bit they might fail and cause the gas valve to close. In order to test this, and hopefully narrow down the possible failure, I temporarily removed the High-limit temperature sensor from the heating cone (still leaving it connected electrically, but not close to the flame). The dryer then stayed lit for 10-15 minutes before I shut it off. I reattached the temperature sensor after it cooled and the dryer went back to its 1 minute on, 1 minute off cycle. Believing that the coils were fine, I went ahead and replaced the high-limit temperature sensor and I see the same behavior.

I have almost completely disassembled the dryer to ensure that there are no blockages internally. I have also disconnected it from the house outside vent to ensure that it isn't being blocked leaving the house and I see the same problem. Any thoughts as to why this would be occurring? Due to this problem the "auto dry" takes a very long time to dry clothes.

Thanks in advance,

Nick

 

Hello Nick. Welcome to the Gas Appliances topic and the Do-It-Yourself Web Site.

Replace the two coils (solenoids) located on top of the gas valve. One of the most common causes for the condition described.

The other common cause you have already done. Insured the venting system was not the cause by disconnecting it from the machine and re-testing. Problem remained the same after doing so. Therefore, likely to be the solenoids.

Be sure the electrical power to the appliance is turned off, before attempting any repairs or services. Always check for gas leaks whenever moving the appliance and/or a service or repair includes any connection of a gas part.

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.

Use the reply button to add additional information or questions. Using the reply button keeps or moves the topic back up to the top of the list automatically and keeps all communications on this subject in this thread.

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Read Gas Dryer Sticky Note In The Forum Topic For Additional Advice:
http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=159481

 

So you think that even though the dryer continues to run with constant heat if the high-limit switch is removed, that it could still be the solenoids causing it to turn off too early? Why is that? Are they letting out too much gas and causing it to get too hot too quickly? Just curious as to the reasoning. I am obviously not an expert and would like to learn more...

 

Hello: theykickedmeout

Since you already changed the high limit sensor to no avail as you stated, the solenoids are the most likely cause. Not expensive items to buy nor to difficult to replace. Worth a try.

Once you change out those solenoids on top of the gas control valve, post back the results.

Web Site Host, Gas Appliances Topic Moderator & Multiple Forums Moderator. Energy Conservation Consultant & Natural Gas Appliance Diagnostics and Repair Technician.

 

I keep hearing they're not expensive, but for this dryer the cheapest that I've found is about $80 total. There are two solenoids in the center (the booster and one other) and one on the left, which total $80. I've found another dryer that's 3 years old for $95... so I'm about ready to cut my losses.