DE608 Maytag Dryer - afraid I got a dud :(

[CheezCayke]

I just bought a Maytag DE 608. The thrift store I bought it from didn't have any way to test it but the people who donated it said it ran so I took everyone at their word with my fingers crossed.

I had to change out the plug from a 3 prong to a 4 prong. I plugged it in put a few damp clothes in it ...and nothing is happening. Is there a trick to turning it on?

(I'm so glad I found this forum I had no idea these old appliances had such fans)

 

[washdaddy]

i don't mean to ask a stupid question but did you push the dryer's "start" button which could be the cycle control knob itself?

On some Maytag models once you select what cycle you are using and push whatever temp buttons you're using....you have to push the knob to start the dryer.

 

[revvinkevin]

You are correct Rick...

The cycle knob itself is the "start button".

Select the cycle and press the knob in to start.

Kevin

 

[CheezCayke]

Ha ha, no not a stupid question. I tried to edit it to say that I had pushed the buttons and pushed the dial, but it wouldn't let me.

I just tried it again and still nothing

It doesn't do anything so I have no idea where to start trouble shooting.

 

[goatfarmer]

Make sure you have 220V power at the outlet. Make sure the door is fully closed. You should see a door switch, push it, and listen for a click.

 

[CheezCayke]

I don't know much about electrical things so I'll probably ask boneheaded questions.

How do I check the voltage?

This is a brand new house with a 4 prong outlet, that is 220 isn't it?

 

[CheezCayke]

Yes, door is fully closed.

 

[kenmore71]

Try turning the dial back and forth a few times and try pushing it in at each setting. When working properly, the dial should offer some resistance and "click" into each of the four positions. Also, try gently pushing the dial in as you slowly turn the dial and see if you can find a "sweet spot". 

 

Behind that dial is a 4-button mechanical assembly and a plate with perforations in it (not unlike an old IBM punch card.) Sometimes that plate gets loose or out of adjustment.

 

The center dial is the spring-loaded start switch and you should be able to depress it between 1/2" and 3/4" at each of the four settings in order to start the dryer, assuming that everything is adjusted properly.

 

[whirlcool]

Do you have a volt meter? If you don't you'll have to see if any of your friends have one and have them check the voltage.

Also do a continuity check on the power cord to make sure power is getting from the wall outlet into the machine. Could be a bad cord.

Make sure the belt is on the drum and on the motor. If not the dryer will not run.
Try moving the drum in the dryer with your hand. Does it move very easily or do you feel some resistance on the drum when turned. If you feel resistance it's probably not the belt.

 

[CheezCayke]

OK, I turned the dial and there is resistance between settings, not really a click more like turn.stop.turn.stop. I turned and pushed the dial in still nothing.

I checked the connections on the new cord to make sure they were tight. I've flipped the breaker a couple times ... :/

 

[DADoES]

 
Attaching the power cord should be straightforward ... but you might post a pic of the terminals just for confirmation.

 

[CheezCayke]

The drum does not move easily. I'll check to see if it's the cord tomorrow.

Thank you everyone for your help.

 

[volvoguy87]

Turning the drum.

If the belt is intact, then there will be some resistance in turning the drum because you will also be turning the motor and blower. I'd start with the low-hanging fruit and double check that you installed the 4-wire cord correctly.

Dave

 

[hippiedoll]

hey CheezCayke....

i'm wondering, did you ever get your de608 dryer working for you????

enquiring minds want to know.....

;o)