Yes the operating and cycling thermostat is the same thing.

When you changed the temp setting did you check the exhaust temp.
There should have been a change.
You need to check the resistance of the operating thermostat's internal heater and the 10 to 10,000 ohms that is switched in for the different temp settings.

I would recommend removing one of the wires from the thermostat's heater (violet), taping it up so it cannot short to anything and giving it a try but am not sure as this may blow the 196 degree fuse.

I have the same issues with my whirlpool dryer. I have to put it on two cycles to dry. ( my washer is great) I am going to check the seals to make sure it's not tripping with cooler air coming through. Next is to replace that cycling/operating thermostat I guess.

I went downstairs to my dryer after reading this and posting. I took off the lint catcher from the inside of the dryer, (3 screws) I cleaned the whole thing, after I unplugged the sensor wires, they were so covered in thick lint. I took the sensors off cleaned those( they were gross) and replaced everything, it's working just fine now. It used to take 2, 60 minute timed cycle drys to dry my clothes. I set it on normal with med heat and let the sensors take over...it dried a full load perfectly. Go figure.

They are the silver colored metal bars that are located inside the dryer cavity that sense wet/dryness of the clothes. There are two bars that run horizontal on the outside of the lint catcher. The lint catcher is held inplace by 3 screws that are accessed from inside the dryer cavity ( where you put your clothes). remove the three screws, carefully jiggle the cover off and remove the two sensor wires. You can then take the whole thing to your kitchen sink, wash with a toothbrush all the lint away and further remove the sensors and clean the underside of them and thoroughly dry and replace. reverse installation back to your dryer. give it a whirl, no pun intended.

hummm, I think I should have read that you have a different model. I don't think your has the sensors. Clean the lint catcher out well and see if you can't open up the front of your dryer and clean it all out, keep a bowl handy for change cause there should be tons. at the bottom of your lint catcher is another piece that collects dirt and heavy lint, clean that out too,