Here are your parts
Replacement parts for MEDC400VW models | AppliancePartsPros.comSee the attachment for the tech sheet.
Is the unit in a timed dry or an auto cycle type.
If in auto put it into timed dry and see if the timer stops.
The reason is that the timer gets power directly from the line during timed dry (uses TM/WB timer contacts) but in auto it gets power through the heating coil (uses TM/OR timer contacts) when the heating coil is shut off.
You will see one of the motor's centrifugal switches 1M/2M in the wiring diagram. This switch closes when the motor gets close to operating speed. It ensures that the heater only comes on after there is air flow.
Since you have no motor but heat the odds are there is a grounded element or a problem with the centrifugal switch.
My bets would be on the element.
Unplug the unit and both wires from the heating coil.
Measure the coil with a meter should be around 10 ohms.
Then measure from each heater connector to the frame, both should be infinite ohms. Be sure to use an unpainted spot on the frame.
If not infinite ohms then the heating coil is grounded and needs replacing.
If you do not own a meter, I would suggest you purchase a one. You can get a decent digital multimeter for under $20.00. You do not need fancy though it is nice if the leads are a couple feet long.
If it saves ordering one unnecessary part it has paid for itself and you end up owning a useful tool.
Most places will not let you return electrical parts so if you order it, you own it.
A couple things to watch when measuring ohms and continuity
1. Always remove power from the machine otherwise you could blow your meter.
2. Always disconnect at least one side of any device you are checking. This eliminates the possibility of measuring an alternate/parallel circuit path.
3. When checking for closed contacts and continuity use the lowest scale (Usually 200 ohms). Then try higher scales. This scale is 0 to 200 ohms so if the device you are measuring is 300 ohms this scale would show an open circuit which it is not, you are just measuring outside the scale's dynamic range.
4. When you start always short the meter leads together. This will tell you that the meter is working and if there is any 0 offset.
There is a good STICKY at the start of this forum about it's use.
