Elec dryer maitenance

[browntown]

Hi All, I took apart the dryer yesterday to shopvac the internals, and got it nice and cleaned up with a new vent hose and cleaned the ducting out of the house.

While apart, I took off the element, and noticed half of it was black. Now the dryer still drys, so my question is:

Does the black soot indicate any impending failure or is that normal? From what I understand, the element either works or doesn't - no in between. But I'd thought I'd ask.

Also the belt is looking pretty old, figured I'd replace that. Anything else I should replace "while I'm in there" that is cheap insurance?

Idler, bushings, etc

 

[Norcal]

What make of dryer? I would say check the drum rollers.

 

[Nick Danger]

+1 on checking the drum rollers.

Also, check to see if your lint filter is clogged. Dryer sheets tend to block the screen. Run water onto it at the sink, and see if the water goes through. If it doesn't, scrub the filter with soap and a brush.

 

[browntown]

Whirpool. I just found a factory kit that is belt, rollers, and idler arm all for under 20 bucks. Seems like a prudent thing to do.

Can anyone comment on the element?

I'll check the screen too.

 

[Milton Shaw]

Most dryers have two separate elements. On Cotton cycle both are used along with the higher temp thermostat. On delicate one element is used and the lower temp thermostat. You should check for ohms on each element and then check for burned connections at thermostats and timer/switches. You may be drying on only one element. Most elements are burned out because of venting problems which let the elements sag and overheat.

 

[rkevins]

when you replace the rollers be sure to clean/polish the posts they mount on with fine sandpaper but do not put any lube on them that can attract dust