August 01, 2014

How to install a dryer gas valve coil kit

This DIY dryer repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for how to replace the gas valve coils on a gas dryer. The valve coils open the gas valves while the dryer is running. If the dryer heats initially but then stops heating, the problem is usually the gas valve coils. That's because weak coils can open the valves when you first start the dryer, but when the burner cycles off and then tries to light again, weak coils can't open the valves correctly. Replace the failed valve coils with the manufacturer-approved dryer part.

Some dryer models require removing the dryer drum to reach the valve coils. Here's a repair guide that shows how to remove a dryer drum.

This procedure works for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Crosley and Estate gas dryers with a lint screen housing located in the top dryer panel. Although the procedure for opening the dryer differs, you also can use the same basic repair steps to replace gas valve coils in Frigidaire, GE and Electrolux models.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

Nut driver set

Phillips screwdriver

Putty knife

Work gloves

Slot screwdriver

Vacuum cleaner or shop vac

Repair difficulty

Time required

90 minutes or less

Installing a gas valve coil kit on a dryer

This video explains how to replace the gas valve coil kit in a gas dryer.

Instructions

01.
Shut off the power and gas supply
Unplug the dryer to disconnect electrical power. Shut off the gas supply to the dryer.
Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
02.
Raise the top panel
Pull the lint screen out of the housing in the top panel of the dryer.
Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 2 screws that secure the lint screen housing to the top panel. To release the clips that lock the top of the dryer in place, push a putty knife under the lid near the left and right edges of the front of the dryer.
Lift the top and prop it securely against the wall behind the dryer.
PHOTO: Remove the lint screen.
PHOTO: Remove the lint screen housing screws.
PHOTO: Release the panel locking clips.
PHOTO: Lift the top panel.
03.
Remove the front panel
Use a slot screwdriver to release the locking tab on the wire harness plug for the door switch. Disconnect the wire harness.
Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the front panel mounting screws from the inside of the dryer.
Pull the front panel forward slightly, and then lift and unhook it from the 2 bottom hangers.
Pull the front panel off of the dryer and set it aside.
PHOTO: Disconnect the wire harness for the door switch.
PHOTO: Remove the front panel mounting screws.
PHOTO: Remove the front panel.
04.
Remove the coils
Pull the wire harness plugs off of the valve coils.
Remove the mounting screws from the mounting bracket and then pull the mounting bracket off of the top of the valve coils.
Pull the valve coils off of the burner assembly.
PHOTO: Remove the wires from the valve coils.
PHOTO: Remove the valve coil mounting screws.
PHOTO: Pull the mounting bracket off the top of the valve coils.
PHOTO: Remove the valve coils.
05.
Install the new coils
Attach the new coils to the burner assembly.
Reinstall the bracket and reinstall the screws.
Replace the wire harness plugs on the new valve coils.
Tip: While the dryer is open, vacuum the dust and lint from inside the dryer.
06.
Reinstall the front panel
Position the front panel on the hangers at the bottom of the dryer.
Line up the mounting holes and reinstall the screws in the top of the front panel to secure it to the dryer. Plug the wire harness back into the plug on the door switch. Make sure the locking tab engages properly.
07.
Reassemble the top panel
Lower the top panel and snap it into place.
Reinstall the screws in the lint duct housing and reinstall the lint screen.
08.
Restore power and the gas supply
Plug the dryer into the wall outlet. Turn on the gas supply to the dryer.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.