How to remove (unscrew) thermostats from GE dryer?

[cardinal24]

There are 4 photos.
I think I've found the 2 thermostats. There are 2 Torx screws alongside each.

I am reluctant to unscrew the screws.

The problem is there is a grey "box" behind the screws. Will the thermostats fall into the grey box? Will the screws fall in?

- Is there a way to remove the box?
- Do I turn the round thermostats themselves and ignore the screws?

 

[combo52]

To remove thermostats on a GE dryer

The two outer screws hold the galvanized cover in place, remove these first, then it becomes obvious how to proceed.

 

It is very unlikely that these TSs are bad, older dryers run hotter than many like, If you are concerned about how hot the dyer is running I would replace at least one of the TSs with a much cooler one in the 120-130 F range, I have done this dozens of times for our customers that do not like how hot their older dryers run.

 

[cardinal24]

I am grateful for your response.
I failed to mention this (and I-could-be-wrong)...

Amy and I used this dryer for over a year. No issues.

Then, one day, we found the top to be SO HOT we were afraid! As in "hot enough to burn". We checked air-flow...fine.

But, again: I-could-be-wrong.
But it does seem like it is running unsafely-hot.
Thanks again.

 

[combo52]

You could have a bad thermostat, but both are unlikely to be bad, what temperature were you using when this happened?

 

There are several other reasons why the dryer was running so hot, the first thing to check was the exhaust system [ it is always best to try running the dryer with out the exhaust connected if you are not absolutely sure the exhaust is not the problem ] The most likley reason a GE dryer like this could get very HOT is a shorted heater element, I would take the drum out and do a careful inspection of both elements. You can also remove both operating thermostats and test them.

 

Often replacing parts on an older appliance causes more problems than it solves, replacement you buy for an older appliance are often not nearly as good as the originals.

 

[cardinal24]

More info:
On MEDIUM, the dryer gets SCALDING in about one minute.
On NO HEAT, it does not get hot.
The heat is at the back-top, under the control panel.

 

[Chetlaham]

I'm with Combo

My vote is shorted heating element from what you describe. Not unheard of on GE dryers from what I've seen.

 

[combo52]

Hot GE Dryer Top

This is also caused by a restricted-clogged exhaust vent system, first thing to try is running a load with the exhaust vent disconnected from the back of the dryer.

 

If the top still gets very hot it is time to take the dryer apart and check for shorted elements or a clogged or dirty blower, the blower in any dryer works much better if completely clean, so use an old tooth brush to remove all traces of dirt and lint from the vanes of the blower wheel.