Amana Dryer Motor Starts Then Stops: Troubleshooting... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's MCU (Microcontroller Unit) relies on the start switch to initiate the motor. Once the motor is running, a holding circuit, often through a relay on the control board or the motor itself, maintains power to the motor. If the holding circuit fails, the motor will only run while the start button is depressed. The thermal fuse is a safety device in series that protects the motor from overheating.

Symptoms:

The Amana dryer motor starts when the start button is pressed but immediately stops when the button is released.

Possible Causes:

Faulty start switch
Open thermal fuse
Defective motor relay on the control board
Wiring harness issue
Overheated motor windings

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC outlet and verify power at the breaker panel.
2

Locate and test the thermal fuse using a multimeter. It should have continuity (0 ohms). Replace if open.
3

Check the start switch for continuity when pressed and released. Replace if faulty. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to access.
4

Inspect the motor relay on the control board for burnt spots or damage. Test with a multimeter for proper switching function. Replace the control board if the relay is defective.
5

Examine the wiring harness for loose connections or frayed wires. Repair or replace as needed.
6

Check the motor windings for resistance according to the dryer's service manual. Overheated windings may indicate a failing motor. Motor resistance is typically between 3-10 ohms.
7

Ensure the dryer vent is not blocked to prevent overheating, which can cause the motor to shut down prematurely.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer before performing any repairs. Capacitors in the control board can store a lethal charge. Use proper Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Clean the lint filter after every load. Inspect and clean the dryer vent at least once a year to prevent overheating and airflow restriction.

Expert Tip:

On some Amana models, you can enter a diagnostic mode by pressing and holding the 'Cycle Select' and 'Start' buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. This may reveal error codes related to the motor circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance reading I should see across the motor windings?

Typical motor winding resistance is between 3-10 ohms, but always refer to the dryer's service manual for the exact specifications for your model.

•How do I locate the thermal fuse on my Amana dryer?

The thermal fuse is usually located on the blower housing or near the heating element housing. It is a small, white, rectangular component with two wires attached.

•Where is the motor relay located, and how do I test it?

The motor relay is typically located on the control board. Visually inspect it for burnt spots. To test, disconnect power and use a multimeter to check for continuity when the relay should be activated. Refer to the wiring diagram.

Amana Dryer Motor Starts Then Stops: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the typical resistance reading I should see across the motor windings?

•How do I locate the thermal fuse on my Amana dryer?

•Where is the motor relay located, and how do I test it?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: