If your Montgomery Wards dryer won't stop or keeps running long after a cycle should end, the most likely causes are restricted airflow from a clogged vent, an anti-wrinkle option left on, a blocked or worn blower wheel, a power issue, or a faulty control board. A partially clogged vent is the top culprit because reduced airflow raises cabinet temperature and drying time and can even cause a burning smell, so start by checking and cleaning the venting system. Next, verify the anti-wrinkle or tumble option is off, since that setting will make the drum tumble periodically after the cycle finishes. Inspect the blower wheel for lint buildup or wobble that cuts airflow, and confirm the power cord and breaker are secure so the dryer isn’t getting intermittent voltage. If airflow and power check out but the dryer still keeps running, the control board or main control board may be letting the machine run too long. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer.
01 - Air Flow Problem
If the vent line is clogged or partially clogged, it will restrict the airflow through the dryer, substantially increasing the drying time and cabinet temperature and potentially causing a burning smell. To ensure proper dryer performance, you should clean your dryer's venting system at least once per year.
Top Solution
02 - Anti-wrinkle cycle option selected
Most dryer models have an anti-wrinkle cycle option that can be selected to reduce wrinkles. When selected the dryer drum will tumble the clothes every few minutes after the cycle is completed to help keep wrinkles from occurring. If this option was inadvertently selected the dryer will intermittently run until the clothes are removed.
Top Solution
03 - Montgomery Wards Dryer Blower Wheel
The blower wheel draws air through the dryer and pushes the air out the vent. Clumps of lint, socks, and small articles of clothing can escape the lint filter and get caught in the blower wheel. In addition, the blower wheel sleeve can wear out, allowing the blower wheel to wobble on the motor shaft. If the blower wheel is obstructed or defective, it may take too long to dry clothes. To determine if the blower wheel is working properly, remove the dryer vent and assess the strength of the air flow. If the air flow is weak, check the blower wheel for obstructions. If no obstructions are present, try rotating the blower whee...l by hand. If the blower wheel wobbles as it turns, replace it.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Confirm a circuit breaker has not tripped and the power cord is plugged tightly into the wall receptacle. A loose plug can provide intermittent power to the dryer and cause it to spinning stop during the cycle.
Top Solution
05 - Montgomery Wards Dryer Control Board
A dryer's control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component. You can also use a multimeter to test for voltage reaching the drive motor after reviewing the dryer's wiring diagram.
A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. If there's no obstruction in the dryer's venting and the dryer is heating to the proper temperature, it's possible the control board is defective and allowing the appliance to run longer than it should. You can inspect the board for signs of damage or a shorted component.