I have a Whirlpool dryer (don’t know the model number… the dryer was given to me about 8 years ago and I didn’t get an owner’s manual). In the past day or two it’s started acting funny… When I turn it on, it runs (tumbles and heats) for a few minutes (less than 5), and then just stops. It sounds like the timer might still be going, but nothing else happens. Since this is a dinosaur, I’ll probably just end up buying a new dryer (although I rather not)… I just want to be sure it isn’t a cheap fix first, and I can’t find a repair service that will help me diagnose the problem without charging me a ridiculous fee.
If after it stops you cannot restart it for several minutes then the likely cause is that the motor is overheating and tripping it’s internal thermal protect.
You then have to wait for the motor to cool down so the protect will reset.
This can be a number or things.
Try rotating the drum in the correct direction. It should turn fairly easily.
You may want to try this on a couple other dryers to get a feel for it. Could be the drum is putting too much load on the motor. You will have to open it up and find the cause.
If the unit has a seal between the heating element and the motor, could be that hot air is being blown back onto the motor. Try it in a no heat cycle, if it now runs OK then check for a seal. Also make sure that he vent system is clean.
Thank you so much! I found the model #, thanks to your instructions:
LET56240DQO
I tried running the “no heat” cycle today and it ran through the whole cycle, but then I remembered I had tried that the other day and it quit. So I just tried running the heat cycle, and it ran the entire time, but the clothes were still just as wet as when I took them out of the washer… It doesn’t appear to be heating at all now. The drum does turn fairly easily. So I’m guessing that your 3rd option-“motor is on its last legs” is the winner? If so, I’m guessing that replacing the motor would be expensive?
The motor (Item 7 in Section 2) , will set you back about $80.00.
But even if you decide to replace it I would not order it until you open the unit up and check the heating coil and it’s thermostat’s.
You may as well do an overhaul on it so also check the belt, the idler wheel, the rear support rollers, front support bearing, all internal seals etc.
If you decide to replace the unit be sure to check/clean your vent system first.
Thank you so much for the helpful advice! I went ahead and bought a new dryer… being a working mom with 2 little ones, I was in desperate need of a dryer asap, and I just didn’t have time to learn how to do-it-myself! This is a wonderful site, though, and I will definitely be back when I have a little more time to learn. I did feel good, though, knowing that the issue wasn’t some little thing that could be fixed simply and quickly. Thanks again for your time.