Whirlpool dryer stopped working

[mcf57]

I have a Whirlpool dryer (model = LER7646EQO/14yrs old) and it seems to have stopped working. It was making a weird grinding type noise when you would start it. Once it started, it would still dry clothes fine, but then just last night, the start switch/mechanism seems to have gone as pushing it no longer starts the dryer. I checked the door and its fully closed, but still not turning on.Now, it did start one more time about an hour later, but then didn't start again. I'm thinking it might be something simple (in the start switch or other area).

Since its a Whirlpool dryer & I have a local Sears parts store in my area, I'm hoping I can maybe get a part for it that might make it work again. I did this with my Whirlpool washer about a year ago. Got a $15 part from this Sears part store & got it working again. Hoping I can do the same with the dryer.

Any suggestions on what it could be?

[Dan O.]

I'm thinking it might be something simple (in the start switch or other area).

Since you said it started with a grinding noise, a motor problem could be responsible for both symptoms.

Just not running could be caused by a failed door switch, a problem in the timer, no power getting to the whole dryer or a problem in the motor. Your model also has a thermal fuse which if failed might stop power from getting to the motor as well.

A grinding noise could be caused by a problem with the drum rollers, something caught in the blower fan, a worn front drum glide or a problem with the motor.

It would require investigation to determine which might be responsible for your symptoms.


Dan O.
Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site

[mcf57]

Several other repair forum sites have suggested it could be a motor issue as well. If it is the motor, how much would it be for this part? Is it even worth fixing (since its 14+ yrs old) with a new motor? Since I have tackled & repaired my Whrilpool washer last year, I would be willing to tackle this project as well if its not too bad.

[Dan O.]

If it is the motor, how much would it be for this part?

The motor for your model dryer is around $80 (see the following link).

LINK > Whirlpool LER7646EQ0 Dryer Motor

Is it even worth fixing (since its 14+ yrs old) with a new motor?

There are few repairs a dryer can require that would justify replacing the whole appliance. Replacing the motor would be one of the most expensive jobs ever required but the motor on your model is relatively cheap. Most run in the area of $150+.

As long as the rest of the dryer is in decent shape, replacing the motor would be justifiable even on a 14 year old one.

JMO

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~

[mcf57]

OK, I got home and tried turning the inside drum. Was able to do this. Now, I can tell you that it did start ONE more time again last night after I got home, but that was it. It hasn't been able to start again.

I also noticed something else and not sure this matters. I heard a very faint humming noise & determined that its the timer still running whether the actual motor is going or not. It will then count down to zero and stop. It will stop if I open the door, but will start again when I close the door (even if I don't hit the start button)

Finally, most of the times when I hit the start button, nothing at all will happen. However, on occasion, it has made this buzzing type noise like its trying to start something, but can't. The buzzing noise appears to be coming from that start button area too. Could this help determine matters?

[Dan O.]

I can tell you that it did start ONE more time again last night

That should rule out a thermal protector as the problem as once it failed it would permanently stop operation.

the timer still running whether the actual motor is going or not.

That is normal. Only the motor requires the start button to be pressed. The timer should run whenever in the ON position and the door closed and the door switch functioning properly.

Could this help determine matters?

It doesn't change a lot of the possibilities, no but does likely rule out the thermal fuse as a possibility.

JMO

Dan O.
Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site