Kitchen Gas Appliances - Drum Rotating Problem

Our Kenmore Gas Dryer (Model 110.76812690) has trouble starting. Sometimes the motor seems to strain and the drum will not turn. Other times the drum starts but it is noisier than usual and seems to strain. The drum seems to be turning slowly, but I admit I never watched it turn with the top up before. :-) Usually the dryer will stop before the end of the cycle and will not start again until it has cooled for a while. I have taken it apart several times and see no obvious trouble. The belt is not slipping, the motor turns (does not spin easily but can be turned by hand with slight effort and does not have any jiggle to the shaft). I have cleaned dust and lint from everywhere and the motor did not seem overly dusty. Is it time to replace the motor? The dryer is 6 years old.

Thanks!

Bill B

Hello Bill. Welcome to my Gas Appliances forum and our Do-It-Yourself Web Site.

Any one of several parts that allow the drum to rotate freely can be all or part of the cause as well as the motor itself.

The drum rolls on gliders and or slider parts or pads. If these parts become worn the drum can drag. Some dryers have a read drum bearing which can drag when worn out.

Attempt to rotate the drum when only the door is opened and motor not running. The drum should rotate with a slight drag only and make very little noise.

Remove the drum and inspect all parts it slides, glides, pulleys and or parts the drum rotates on. If the drum has a rear bearing, it may need to be removed and replaced.

Motors usually last a lot longer than 6 years. However, the motor can still become defective before that time. Any electric motor repair shop can test the existing motor. Shops are listed in the local phone directory or book.

Retail appliance parts dealers can also help determine what the possible problem may be also. They will need the make, model and serial numbers.

Appliance parts dealers are an excellent source for original replacement parts. Dealers are listed in the phone book under appliances. Be sure the electrical power to the appliance is turned off, before attempting any repairs.

Regards & Good Luck. TCB4U2B2B.....Company Enterprises
Tom_Bartco. Doityourself Web Site Host & Gas Appliances Forum Moderator. Energy Conservation Consultant & Natural Gas Appliance Diagnostics Technician.

I just wanted to follow up with a post-mortem on this issue. I had a Sears repairman come out to diagnose the problem. Upon hearing the machine run immediately pronounced the engine dead, as I had suspected. Instead of paying the $276 to have him repair it, I bought an engine for $99. I was unable to free the old blower wheel and had to break it off and replace it. I also had to replace the housing which was bent durning the removal. Bottom line; I spent $200 in parts, hours of sweat and bloody knuckles for a machine I could have replaced for $199. Wife was right and I ate crow. Do I get points for trying? The good news is that the dryer is now working fine! Next time the engine fails, I will replace it right away!:D

Hello: billbiggers

You did well. Thanks for the update and glad the dryer is now working well.

The motor was one of the parts I suspected and mentioned could be the problem but not as likely since the dryer is only 6 years old.

I always attempt to start the problem determing process in the most likely area and or parts. Drum slides and glides are the easiest most often cause and least costly to replace.

Not so with motors or blowers. Usually last longer than 6 years except in this case.