I have a Kenmore Series 80 electric dryer with Model# 110.96586200. Recently, we've had to hit a "sweet spot" on the timer to get the dryer to run. When it started, we could move the timer dial back and forth to find that spot and it would run fine. Now, the dryer only kicks in when it is at the end of any of the cycles ("low" in the autodry section and the cool down phase of the timed dry section). No matter where the timer dial is set (except the "off" sections), I can hear the timer running/clicking. For example, I can set the timer to 70 on Timed Dry, walk away, and when it runs down to the cool down phase (under 10 minutes left), the dryer turns on. This has only been a recent issue.

A less annoying item is that, for several years, we have not had to use the start button at all. We set the timer, shut the door, and the dryer turns on without pushing start.

Before finding this great site, I assumed the timer was 13 years old and had worn out. After looking in the forum, I've seen others that did receive this answer, but some were told to change out the thermostat. Does my issue point to a specific fix?

Thanks!

Hi,

So, did you ever fix the start button issue?

It sounds like that may be the problem with everything because what happens is the contacts in the push-to-start button weld together and lets the dryer start automatically when you close the door, without pushing the button.

Now if the welded contacts inside the push-to-start switch have become un-welded or just broke completely, then your dryer won't start properly.

Unplug your dryer first before testing!

Take 1 wire off the push-to-start switch before ohm testing it for continuity, doesn't matter which one.

With the button pushed in, it should have continuity, with the button out, it shouldn't have continuity.

If you don't have a ohm meter, you can take the wires off and use electrical tape to tape them together to see if your dryer starts properly, but DON'T leave it that way, just order the push-to-start switch.

Here's the push-to-start switch for your model in case you need to order it:
Manufacturer's Number: 3395382

3395382

Jake

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