Parts for Amana ALE331RCW: 06 - Rear Bulkhead, Air Duct, Heater & Roller Parts

The Heating Element is an OEM part for Whirlpool dryers. It generates the heat necessary to dry clothes by converting electrical energy into thermal energy, ensuring efficient and effective drying performance. This heater measures approximately 11.7 x 10.7 inches.

You should replace the heating element if it becomes faulty or damaged. Causes of a bad heating element can include prolonged usage, electrical issues, or physical damage due to overheating. Over time, the element can burn out or break, leading to insufficient heat production.

Symptoms of a bad heating element include:

• The dryer not producing heat
• Clothes taking longer than usual to dry
• The dryer not reaching the desired temperature
• Unusual noises or a burning smell during operation

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

10 - 16 x 1/2

The High Limit Thermal Fuse is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dryers that prevents overheating. It is a one-time use use part that must be replaced if it is tripped. Its designed to respond to excessively high temperatures, safeguarding both the appliance and the home.

Causes of a bad High Limit Thermal Fuse can include blocked ventilation in the dryer or exhaust vent, overloading the dryer, or component failure within the heating system leading to overheating.  

Symptoms of a bad High Limit Thermal Fuse include:

• The dryer not starting or abruptly stopping during a cycle.
• No heat being produced during cycles, leading to damp clothes.
• A blown thermal fuse detected during a continuity test.

This OEM Whirlpool part can also be used on Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore/Sears brand appliances.
 

This ground screw secures the appliance grounding conductor to the chassis for a reliable electrical ground connection, helping maintain safety and proper operation. It's a direct-fit fastener used where a dedicated ground screw is required. What it does

• Fastens the grounding conductor to the appliance frame to maintain a secure earth/ground connection.
• Helps prevent electrical shock and reduces risk of stray voltage on the chassis.
• Addresses symptoms like intermittent or absent grounding and loose or corroded ground connections.
• Used wherever the original equipment grounding screw has been lost, damaged, or corroded.

• Disconnect power at the breaker and unplug the appliance before starting any work.
• Only attach to designated grounding points on the chassis; ensure the mating surface is clean and free of paint or corrosion.
• Use the correct driver and moderate hand torque—do not overtighten to avoid stripping threads.

The Hi-Limit Thermostat is an OEM part for Whirlpool dryers. It serves as a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating by cutting off the power to the heating element if the temperature exceeds a certain limit.

You should replace the hi-limit thermostat if it malfunctions or fails. Causes of a bad hi-limit thermostat can include normal wear and tear, exposure to excessively high temperatures, or electrical issues that affect its functionality.

Symptoms of a bad hi-limit thermostat include:

• The dryer not heating properly
• The dryer shutting off unexpectedly during a cycle
• Long drying times or clothes not drying completely
• The dryer becoming excessively hot to the touch

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

Size: 10-24 x 3/8 inch.

This 10-32 x 3/8 machine screw secures panels and components in many appliances where a small, threaded fastener is required. It replaces stripped, missing, or loose screws to restore stable assembly and reduce vibration. What it does:

• Fastens panels, brackets, and small components using 10-32 unified threads
• Restores secure mounting when screws are missing, stripped, or loose
• Helps stop rattling, misalignment, and intermittent part contact caused by loose fasteners
• Works wherever a 10-32 x 3/8 machine screw is specified by the manufacturer

• Disconnect power or unplug the appliance before servicing
• Use the correct size screwdriver or nut driver to avoid stripping the head
• Tighten until snug; avoid over-tightening which can strip threads or crack plastic
• Replace with the same size and thread spec to ensure proper fit and function

This terminal block provides a secure connection point for the appliance's main power and incoming wiring, restoring reliable electrical contact and preventing loose or arcing connections. What it does:

• Creates a stable, screw-down connection for incoming power wires and internal leads
• Helps prevent intermittent power, arcing, or burning at the connection point
• Used where the power cord or internal harness attaches to the appliance chassis
• Commonly replaced when terminals are loose, melted, corroded, or show signs of overheating

What's included:

• One terminal block

Install notes:

• Disconnect power at the breaker or unplug the appliance before starting any work
• Take a photo of existing wiring before removal to ensure correct reconnection
• Reuse existing screws or replace with equivalent hardware; tighten firmly but avoid overtightening
• If terminals show heat damage or corrosion on mating connectors, replace both the block and affected connectors

The Thrust Washer is an OEM part for Whirlpool washers and dryers, reduces friction between moving parts within the appliance. This small component is placed between rotating surfaces to ensure smooth operation and to extend the lifespan of those parts. The thrust washer can wear down or become damaged due to the constant pressure and movement.

Causes for replacement may include normal wear and tear, overloading the appliance, which puts extra stress on mechanical components, or a lack of regular maintenance.  

Symptoms of a bad Thrust Washer include:

• Increased noise during operation
• The appliance vibrating more than usual
• A decrease in performance efficiency

This genuine Whirlpool OEM replacement part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Retaining Ring is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dryers and washing machines. This retaining ring holds the rear wheels on the axels of the washer or dryer. 

Symptoms of a bad retaining ring can include wear and tear over time, damage due to accident or impact, or corrosion affecting the structural integrity.

Causes of a bad retaining ring dryer include:

• Excessive vibration or movement of the drum during operation 
• Noise or banging sounds from loose components   
• Deformation or cracking of the retaining ring itself
• The dryer door not closing properly

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

The Dryer Drum Felt Seal is an OEM part for Whirlpool dryers. This seal ensures a tight fit between the dryer drum and the rear bulkhead, preventing air leaks and maintaining proper drum alignment during the drying cycle. The seal measures approximately 36 inches in length and 1 inch in width. Please note, adhesive for installation is not included. 

Causes of a bad felt seal can include friction from the rotating drum, exposure to high temperatures, or general wear and tear over time.

Symptoms of a bad felt seal include:

• Clothes getting caught or torn during the drying cycle
• Increased drying times due to air leaks
• Unusual noises such as scraping or squeaking
• Visible gaps or tears in the felt seal

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

Note: For adhesive order WPY055980.

10 - 16 x 1/2

The Drum Roller Axle is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dryers. It is the component that attaches to the rear panel and supports the dryer drum rollers.

Causes of a bad drum roller axle can include wear from years of operation, potentially leading to bending or wobbling that disturbs smooth drum spinning. Bearing seals may also deteriorate through continuous motion and heat exposure.

Symptoms of a bad Drum Roller Axle include:

• Vibrations or imbalanced drum rotations sensed during drying
• Premature failure of other drum or suspension components
• Reduced efficiency as uneven tumbling hinders fabric agitation
• Noises and rattling sounds from within the dryer cylinder area

This OEM Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, Jenn-Air, Amana, and select Kenmore models

The Drum Support Roller is an OEM part for Whirlpool dryers. It plays a critical role in supporting and stabilizing the dryer drum as it rotates, allowing clothes to tumble evenly and dry efficiently. This support roller ensures smooth, quiet operation and helps prevent unnecessary strain on the motor and other components.

Causes of a bad Drum Support Roller can include continuous wear from regular use, overloading the dryer, which puts extra strain on the rollers, and lack of maintenance, such as not cleaning the lint and debris that can accumulate on the rollers.

Symptoms of a bad Drum Support Roller include:

• A thumping or rumbling noise during operation
• The dryer drum not turning smoothly or at all
• Excessive vibration of the dryer unit

This OEM Whirlpool part can also be used on Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore/Sears brand appliances.