If your dryer starts then stops — or the drum spins for a few seconds and then quits — the likely causes run from sensor and electrical faults to control failures. The moisture sensor can tell the control the load is dry and shut the drum, though that is less common; next check the motor relay, which can drop out and stop the motor. Control board failures, including the main control board, are also possible and often show burn marks or failed components. Intermittent start/cancel behavior points to the user control and display board, and a worn or faulty timer can also cause the cycle to halt unexpectedly. Before you replace parts, verify obvious items such as the door switch and touchpad, and use a multimeter and the wiring diagram to test relays and the timer when possible. If you need the exact replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see parts that fit your dryer and get the correct motor relay, moisture sensor, control board, or timer for your repair.
01 - Montgomery Wards Dryer Moisture Sensor
The moisture sensor monitors the clothing’s moisture level and sends a signal to the control board when the clothes are dry. If the moisture sensor is malfunctioning, it could inaccurately report that the clothing have sufficient dried, causing the drum to stop spinning. However, this is rarely the case. Before replacing the moisture sensor check all the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the moisture sensor.
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If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the motor relay is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the motor relay, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, you can test the motor relay by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram to help determine if it is malfunctioning.
If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the main control board is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the board, check all of the more commonly defective parts. If you have determined that all of the other components are working properly, replace the main control board. (The control board cannot be easily tested, but you can try to inspect it for signs of burning or a shorted-out component.)
05 - Montgomery Wards Dryer User Control and Display Board
If the dryer's start/cancel button is only working intermittently, it's likely the user control and display board is malfunctioning and causing the dryer to stop running. A new board will need to be installed to resolve the problem.
If both the door switch and dryer touchpad are working appropriately, it's possible the timer is defective. However, this is not that common of a problem. Before replacing the timer, check all the more commonly defective parts. If you determine that all of the other components are working properly, test the timer by using a multimeter and consulting the wiring diagram. If the timer is defective, replace it.