Maytag DE406: little heat when operating

[flameboy54]

Hi all,

Hoping I can get some assistance with my problem. I have a Maytag DE406 that works fine mechanically but the heat doesn't max out when operating. It would take 2-3 cycles on permanent press to completely dry everything.

The research I've done points me to either of the thermostats being the issue. I opened up the back and tested the cycling t-stat (3-3035) for continuity and passed.
My current roadblock is getting the front off to access the hi-limit t-stat. Any pointers? There is nothing beyond 4 screws behind the front door. If the t-stats are fine, what else should I check? Thanks in advance.

 

[goatfarmer]

Is the exhaust clear? Most slow heating dryers have a plugged exhaust.

 

 

[flameboy54]

Yup, exhaust is clear. Blows pretty good when the hose is detached.

 

[combo52]

Slow Maytag HOH dryer

First thing to try is try drying a few loads without the vent connected to the back of the machine.

If it dries much better your exhaust system may be restricted.

The next most likely thing is an overly sensitive safety thermostat, that’s the one mounted above the heating element at the front of the machine.

Other common problems are bad timer contacts sometimes they stop eating below 30-40 minutes on the timer.

You also could have a broken or shorted heater that’s only energizing half the heater.

Very unlikely that the thermostat that you had in the picture is bad.

John L

 

[flameboy54]

Thanks John for the tips, I'll give them a try. Can you give me some pointers on how to remove the front cover to access the t-stat in the front? As I mentioned, there's only 4 screws behind the door panel as shown in my photo.

 

[repairguy]

The front cover does not come off by itself on this model of dryer. The whole cabinet has to be removed to access the heating element and other parts in the front of this machine. It helps to make sure the dryer is level with all feet touching the ground before removing the back panel or cabinet.

 

[maytag85]

From my experience, worn out high limit thermostats cause long dry times since it’s cycling the heat below the cycling thermostat. Most of the time a dryer that’s used with a restricted vent will cause the high limit thermostat to fail sooner than it’s supposed to but since that Maytag HOH dryer is almost 50 years old, the high limit thermostat more than likely is worn out and tired after so many drying cycles and opening the door to add something in or to see how dry everything is and even something as simple as opening a door on a Maytag HOH dryer will cause the high limit thermostat to trip since it’s that sensitive.

 

[flameboy54]

Thanks for everyone's input, I really appreciate it! I'll troubleshoot with the tips and update if needed. One last question - what is the part number for the hi limit t-stat? Thanks!