Suzanne,

Try the door switch again,

This time just open the dryer door, the actuator is in the top portion of the door openning, press in on the actuator lever and listen for a "click" noise, when you press in and release the lever, no click noise, would indicate a bad switch assembly, try it several times.

There are still several other possibilities, but that will require dismantling and checking circuits, inside the panels, It's not going to be a problem for you, but lets start at the easiest and work from there.

:) :) :)

Suzanne,

Thanks for the pictures, it did help,

Your door catch and strike look fine, and appear that they would hold the door shut and activate the door switch.

The wiring to the door switch appear fine as well.

But there should have been a distinct "click" sound when you activated the lever in the door opening, not a "thunk" or soft noise.

If you feel safe, try this,
unplug the power cord and raise the top.
Disconnect the two wires from the door switch.

Attach the two wires together,(a paper clip works pretty well/insert the clip into one of the wire terminals, then insert the other wire terminal on to the empty end of the paper clip, you can insulate with tape or make sure the wires and clip don't touch any metal).

Set the timer dial and start the machine(like usual).

If the dryer starts, you've got a bad door switch, if not, we'll have to move on,

Can or do you have access to a multi meter ?

We'll be checking voltages and resistance circuits from there.

:) :) :)

Suzanne,

Great job,

For the time being, make sure you insulate the connection so it won't short out, and remember to let the dryer shut off, or unplug the power cord before you open the door, I don't want you to hurt yourself.

Here's the part number you need to order,

Part number: AP3094142

OK, I had the the springy thing going the wrong way. Screws went in eaisier this time.

But now there's a new problem. The dryer door does not stay shut, alas the duct tape.

Any suggestions?

Suzanne

I might have discovered the problem. Just noticed that on the drop down door, the 2 chrome plates on either side, each having 2 screws in them....on both, the screw farthest from the machine was unsrewed by about a quarter of an inch.

I tightened them but notieced on the left side, it looks like rust is messing with the screw hole. So maybe in the future I'll need to order a new door from you.

I'm hoping the loose screws is the culprit. The door did pop open a lot with a full fat load, but didn't do it with a smaller load. Will keep tabs and maybe I'll need to purchase new AP3094183 part.

Thanks for your help, you all have been great.

Suzanne