Kenmore dryer heater turns on unless unplugged

[jumptrout51]

AJ is correct.
Your centrifugal switch on the motor is most likely stuck in the closed position.

[treyster]

 AJ, thanks for the video link and thanks everyone for your help! I'll tear into it today (after the Daytona 500 of course), I'll post what I find. Sounds like I'll be weighing the merits of fixing a 13 yr old dryer or buying a new one (wife wants new one).

[Bailey]

Don't they always!

[jumptrout51]

You have the best dryer made.
Repair it.

[dab147315]

If you do buy new one stay with lint filter on top and no touch tone pads.Best dryer on market.

[treyster]

You have the best dryer made.
Repair it.

Hairy little beast ain't it? Decided to fix it so I'll be replacing motor and heating element/thermostat assembly. Got everything apart, thanks again AJ for the video link.

[AJ]

After seeing your photo I would also replace the belt idler with part # 691366

The idler you have in there now is IMHO a poor design. The one with the wheel I listed the part number to is the standard idler they used for years in your type of dryer.

If you have never replace the belt or wheels you may want to consider just installing the maintenance kit, part # 4392065

[treyster]

Thanks to everyone, my dryer is up and running again. I replaced the motor, heating element, and the rollers and belt. You guys are great!

[AJ]

That's great, good job!
Thanks for the update.