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HomeRepair HelpTappan Dryer RepairTappan Dryer door won't close/latch Repair
Tappan Dryer door won't close/latch
If your dryer door won't close or latch, start by checking the door strike—the small metal piece that must insert cleanly into the door catch. A bent or missing strike is the most common reason the dryer door will not close. Next inspect the door catch and the latch itself for obstructions or breakage; a dirty or damaged catch or latch often prevents the strike from engaging. A clogged lint trap housing can also keep the screen from seating fully and block the door from closing. Less common causes are a bent hinge or a warped door assembly that keeps the door misaligned. Clean out lint, move any debris, and test the strike, catch, hinge, and latch for play or visible damage; replace the faulty part if it is bent, cracked, or worn. If you need an exact dryer door latch, door strike, or door catch replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct part for your machine and get step by step help to fix it.
01 - Tappan Dryer Door Strike
The dryer door strike should cleanly insert into the door catch to secure the door for dryer operation. If the strike is bent or missing, the door will not be able to latch properly. Inspect the strike for any damage and replace if necessary.
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02 - Tappan Dryer Door Catch
The dryer door catch is the part that the door strike inserted into to secure the door for dryer operation. If the dryer won't latch properly, inspect the catch for an obstruction and clean out if necessary. If the catch appears damaged, the catch should be replaced with a new one.
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03 - Tappan Dryer Door Latch
The door latch which secures the dryer door for operation may be damaged or obstructed, preventing the door from latching properly. Clean any obstruction as necessary. If the latch appears damaged, the latch should be replaced with a new one.
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04 - Lint trap obstructing door
If the lint screen housing is not cleaned out periodically the slots in the housing can become clogged with lint, keeping it from sliding in all the way. Make sure the slots in the housing are clean so the lint screen can be fully inserted and not prevent the door from closing.
Common
05 - Tappan Dryer Door Hinge
If a dryer door hinge is bent or damaged, the door may not be able to latch properly. Inspect the hinges for any damage and replace if necessary.
Less Common
06 - Tappan Dryer Door Assembly
If the dryer door assembly is bent, damaged, or missing components such as the door strike, it will not be able to latch properly. Inspect the door assembly for any damaged or missing parts and replace the assembly with a new one if it's not in good condition.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my dryer door close or latch?
My dryer door looks aligned but still won't latch. What should I check?
Can I replace a dryer door latch, strike, or hinge myself?
If my dryer door hinge is bent, do I need a whole door assembly or just the hinge?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?
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