The timer knob on our dryer has become very hard to turn. For a while, we were getting away with turning it counter-clockwise instead of clockwise. Though the knob had already cracked inside.

Now the knob is broke enough that we can't turn the timer at all with it.

Currently using a pair of pliers to turn the timer. I can order a new knob, but can the timer be lubed and/or cleaned so that it's not so hard to turn?

Any instructions and/or recommended lubes?

Thank you!

I found some posts elsewhere on the net that mentioned trying to lube the timer would ruin it (short it out). Though they were for other brands.

You mentioned taking it apart...some of other posts mentioned repairing the time as "leave it to experienced service techs". So it'd seem to me that is is possible to disassemble it.

I'm pretty handy with mechanical and electrical / electronic stuff. So I'm not afraid to try taking it apart; besides the worse that can happen is I'd have to replace it anyway right? :D

Care to elaborate on what makes it "a pain" to take apart?

I have taken apart a timer from a Maytag since it was not advancing properly. Most mechanical rotary timers use a small 110 volt pancake type drive motor that is attached on the back side. Some are riveted to the timer body and some are held in place with tabs. These can be dismantled and some can be repaired using scrap parts from another timer. If the timer is difficult to turn there are a couple of things that can be the cause. One of these is a damaged gear in the timer drive section. If that is the case and you could find another scrap timer you might be able to fix it. The other possible cause is a set of contacts that are damaged and causing the shaft to hang up from turning. Again if you have access to another timer of the same type you might be able to repair it. Dont expect to have much success unless you are lucky or like me you save old parts to use for this kind of repair. If there is a used appliance dealer in your area check with them to see if they might have a used one at a reduced price. New timers are quite expensive.
Good luck

I have a couple of used Maytag type timers that may be of the type you can use. I would need to see the front and back side pictures of the type on your machine however . The mounting arrangement and number of terminals make a lot of difference. Where do you live and what is your e-mail address ? I can possibly take a couple of pictures of these to see if they would fit and work.
I live near Peoria, Illinois and my e-mail address is jaybird@mtco.com
Tom Horning