Hello,

I have a frigidaire gas dryer, probably about 2 years old. Recently I have been having to hold the start switch for longer than normal, rather than 1-2 seconds it has been about 4-5 and sometimes a little longer.

Wondering if this is normal or a sign of something to come? Anything I can do to help it out or prevent something from happening?

Thank you!

 

Welcome to the forums.

Does it sound like the motor/drum is taking longer to speed up too ?
Can you post the model number for that dryer ?

Usually the motor needs to come up to full speed to lock the dryer on.

 

Hi PJ,

Thanks for the response! It doesn't seem like the motor is taking any longer, maybe a slight bit more noise starting up than usual (sounds like it may be trying a little bit harder to start than previously...) LGQ642Ds0 is the model number.

Yikes, that motor is not a cheap part...

 

Hello ramurphy86. Welcome to the Gas Appliances topic and the Do-It-Yourself Web Site.

A possible cause might be worn drum slider/glider pads. Worn pads increase the drag on the drum, especially during startup. Excessive drag also increases stress load on motor which can lead to excessive motor heat, etc.

Most Noise Problems:

In most cases, it's the drums slider/glider support pads, or rollers for the front of the drum. Also check <if your model is equipped with> a center rear drum support bearing. This may also be a part causing the noise. Any one of the parts or combination of parts mentioned above, may be a direct cause of a noise and/or drum drag related problems.

Slide or glide pads are located on the inside of the front door panel. They are located on the housing that attachés to the inside front doors panel which supports the front of the drum. The top inside part of the drum rides on two and sometimes 3 of these pads or glides. Replacement of these parts should be easy on most models.

Before drum removal, turn of the gas and unplug the dryer from electrical power source. Be sure to note how the belt raps around every part. Must be reinstalled exactly as it was prior to removal. Hand make a drawing or takes cell phone photos if need be.

DRYER SERVICE TIP:
It's always advisable to clean the entire exhaust venting system every 2 years. Or during any dryer maintenance, replacement and or repairs.

An excellent source for original replacement parts is your local retail appliance parts store or do it yourself suppliers and or vendors. Appliance parts dealers stock replacement parts for all appliances. Local parts dealers are listed in the phone book under appliances.

Retail parts dealers can also help determine what the possible problem may be. Bring the make, model and serial numbers if you stop in at the store. The info will help to determine the possible problem causes.

Be sure the appliance is turned off before attempting any repairs. Always check for gas leaks whenever a repair includes any connection of a gas part, gas line or tubing or gas supply.

 

Thanks for the notes! I will take a look at the glider pads and see how the rear main bearing looks. Can't believe this unit is already starting to be a pain after just 2 years..!

 

Does it make a groaning noise when starting? Usual sign of motor going bad. If you take it apart be sure to put some grease in rear bearing cup.