[jmbenesch]

Kenmore Dryer: heats when empty, but when clothes are put in, even a small amount, it does not heat. I took off the back cover & removed a lot of lint build up, thought I had it solved, but still the same story. The fan blades spin in the blower...what part do I need to replace? Please help! Thanks!

[denman]

A Model Number might help

You cleaned out the dryer, did you also clean and check your vent system?

You say the blower wheel spins, are you saying they turn without turning the motor?

Is the below correct:
With clothes in it the drum turns but you get no heat?
When you first start a cycle with clothes, does it start to heat then the heat turns off and the drum continues to rotate?

VENT CHECK

Undo the dryer from the exhaust
Run a load
If the load dries correctly then you have a vent problem.
Clean/check the vent system. Make sure the outside louvers open fully.

If you do not want lint in the house.
Take a pair of pantyhose, put one leg into the other and attach this to the dryer exhaust.
Leave enough room behind the dryer so it can blow out like a windsock.
Run a load.

Both the above will allow you to check the air flow and temp.
Also the above is NOT recommended for a gas dryer due to possible carbon monoxide problems.

[jmbenesch]

Model #110.72822101 Kenmore Gas Dryer

Vent system is clear, louvers on outside open, warm air exiting

Blower wheel spins on its own.

I do notice that while it is warm inside the dryer when running for a short time, it is not HOT.

Could it be the igniter at its end, or is that a case of it either working or not working at all?

[denman]

Blower wheel spins on its own.

It should not spin on it's own.
It should be tight on the motor shaft.
Sounds like it is stripped and needs replacing.