Dryer won't stay on after start button is released after replacement of rear drum bearings

Dryer Repair
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Brand:GE
Model Number:GTDP300GM0WS
Main Symptom:Dryer won’t stay on once start button is released.
What happens & when:Dryer stops working as soon as start button is released. The dryer was unassembled to replace rear drum bearings. Now there is no noise, but something is loose/ajar I suspect. Not sure where to look first.

Error Code (if any):
Parts or tests already tried:
Photos / video link:

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On a GE GTDP300GM0WS, a dryer that runs only while you’re holding the start button almost always means the motor never transitions to its “run” circuit. Since this started immediately after replacing the rear drum bearings and the dryer was disassembled, I’d focus on something left disconnected or a mechanical issue preventing the motor from reaching speed.

Check these items in this order:

1. Belt switch (most likely after reassembly)

This model uses a belt safety switch. If the belt switch isn’t engaged, the dryer may only run while the start button is pressed.

Inspect:

  • Belt routed correctly around the motor pulley and idler pulley.

  • Idler arm properly seated.

  • Belt switch connector plugged in.

  • Belt switch actuator being pressed by the idler assembly.

Quick test: Open the cabinet and watch the idler pulley assembly while someone presses Start. Make sure the switch is actually being actuated.

2. Motor centrifugal switch

When you press Start, the start winding energizes the motor. Once the motor reaches speed, an internal centrifugal switch closes the run circuit. If the motor never reaches speed, releasing Start stops the dryer.

Since you replaced the rear bearing:

  • Verify the drum turns freely by hand.

  • Make sure the drum is seated correctly on the new bearing.

  • Check that no rear bearing parts were installed backward.

  • Ensure the blower wheel isn’t rubbing the housing.

  • Verify nothing is binding the drum.

The drum should turn smoothly with moderate resistance.

3. Wiring disconnected during reassembly

Look for:

  • Loose connector at the motor.

  • Loose connector at the belt switch.

  • Wire pulled off the push-to-start switch.

  • Wire pinched under the front bulkhead or rear bearing bracket.

Compare wiring to the diagram usually located inside the control console or behind the front panel.

4. Door switch

Less likely, but confirm:

  • Door switch connector is fully seated.

  • Door switch lever is being depressed when the door closes.

A failed door switch usually prevents starting at all, but it’s worth checking after disassembly.

5. Front bearing/felt not seated correctly

If the drum is dragging heavily against the front bearing or front felt seal, the motor may not accelerate enough for the centrifugal switch to latch.

Look for:

  • Drum scraping marks.

  • Front panel not fully seated.

  • Felt folded over into the drum path.

Fastest diagnostic

With power disconnected:

  1. Open the dryer.

  2. Rotate the drum by hand.

  3. Does it spin smoothly for a full revolution without binding?

Then:

  1. Hold the Start button.

  2. Watch the motor and belt.

  3. Does the drum reach full speed while you’re holding Start, or does it just hum/turn slowly?

That answer will narrow it down quickly:

  • Drum reaches normal speed, then stops when Start is released → belt switch, wiring, or motor centrifugal switch.

  • Motor hums or struggles to get moving → drum/bearing installation, blower rubbing, or mechanical drag.

Can you tell me:

  • When holding Start, does the drum actually rotate normally?

  • Do you hear the motor running at full speed, or only a hum?

  • Did you replace only the rear bearing kit, or also the belt/idler?