Fixing 1962 Westinghouse Dryer

[electroaus]

Hi Everyone

We have an antique Westinghouse dryer, I think its a 1962 model - This is the exact one (from your site!) http://www.automaticwasher.org/TD/JPEG/VINTAGE/2013/classiccaprice++4-2-2013-23-08-7.jpg

A few months ago the dryer wouldn't turn on. I opened up the front cover and the wiring to the relay, was in a bad way - the insulation was worn off and it almost looked like it had shorted, with only a few stands still attached. The relay wasn't in great shape either.

I purchased a new solid state relay with 240v AC input (Australia) Pic: and connected it up. Now when I turn the dryer on it runs for a few seconds before the RCD on my circuit trips. As far as I can see everything is connected as it was before. Is it appropriate to use a solid state relay to replace the original older mechanical style relay? Could this be causing the problem, or possibly more likely a problem with how I've rewired it? I've tested the continuity of the thermostats and they appear to be fine.

It's a great machine and would love to get it back in operation.

 

[classiccaprice]

Hey, that's mine! If it has that particular blue with red writing background them it's a 53 or 54 model here in the U.S. It's a 1953 model if it has rounded glass (like my dryer) or a 1954 if it has pointed glass (like my washer). By 1962, Westinghouse had switched to control panels on the top of the machine with oval windows. Unfortunately I don't know the answer to your question, but someone on here does. Best of luck. It can be saved!

[this post was last edited: 12/15/2013-10:51]

 

[electroaus]

Re:

Thanks for the info! Even older!