Dryer not reaching functional temp.

[ddavis263]

I have a stackable Maytag dryer that will not exceed 110 degrees.  If i pull the heating element off the back it gets red hot.  As soon as i place it back in the cabinet and the blower begins pulling air over it the temp drops to 110.  I have bypassed all the thermal switches as well as the high limit switch and still the same result.  

Any suggestions?

Model MDE2400AYW

[rmbraught]

The thermistor, in your blower housing, is what actually controls the temperature.

Under poor air flow conditions you won't get good internal drum temp.

I (recommend) a simple disconnect of the duct external to the unit; if the drum internal temp rises significantly, chase an external duct restriction.

If it doesn't, you potentially have a bad thermistor (failure more likely than the drive board...)

IMHO it's not really a good idea to bypass the high limit thermostat or thermal fuse in any dryer (knowing this is electric; *Never* do it in a gas unit, please.) I wonder if you have the thermistor confused with a switch (on/off) thermostat?

If you have the tech sheet and an ohm meter, you might want to check the thermistor.

Cheers,
-Robert

[rmbraught]

LOL!

Not having worked on one of your models, I just gave some (I thought, after similar experience with other models) reasonable advice.

However, I thought I'd double check, and I found this in the Maytag service lit library for your model:

"Normal operating temperatures listed in some Sales Brochures, Training
Materials, and User Guides for the 24" dryers, are incorrect.
The listed Temperature settings are corrected as follows:
Listed Setting Incorrect Temperature Value Correct Temperature Value
Low Temperature Setting 140° F (60° C) 106° F (41° C)
Medium Temperature Setting 145° F (63° C) 109° F (43° C)
Regular Temperature Setting 150° F (66° C) 113° F (45° C)"

(The original published spec temps are first, the 'real' temps are 2nd)

FWIW the thermistor test spec is "60K ohms at room temperature"
(seriously 'room temperature' would be 68 degrees F standard)

Did it used to work OK... ...and now not?

HTH,
-Robert

[ddavis263]

Robert,

Thanks for the effort.  If what you say is right about the operating temps, I'm good to go. I was going by what the tach sheet in the unit said.  Never thought to look further.

Thanks

[rmbraught]

VERY welcome, sorry for the mis-information.

I'm used to 140 degree F + exhaust temps myself; kinda low for a 240 unit !

Plus side is we both learned something!