If your Tappan dryer won’t stop or keeps running after a cycle, the most common culprit is restricted airflow: a clogged vent or lint buildup raises cabinet temperature and can make the dryer run longer or even smell like something is burning. Next check the control settings; many models have an anti-wrinkle or extended tumble option that will pulse the drum every few minutes after a cycle finishes. If settings are correct, inspect the blower wheel for lint, trapped items, or a worn sleeve that lets the wheel wobble and reduces exhaust, which lengthens run time. Less likely but still possible causes are incoming power problems such as a loose plug or tripped breaker that give intermittent power, and a failing control board or main control board that is sending incorrect voltage and allowing the dryer to run past the end of the cycle. You can enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find exact replacement parts and diagrams for your dryer so you can fix the issue with the right part on hand.
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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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.