Customer Questions and Answers for Dryer Thermal Cut-Off Kit by Whirlpool

Hi Randall. Yes if you momentarily jump the thermostat and it heats up, it is a solid verification of the device being bad, but what caused it. As you wont want this to happen right after you change it out. Clean all the vent system entirely. Then go outside and clear the vent cap so it opens and closes properly. 1st- night air, rain air will get into the vent system and in the dips of the vent lengths or crevices anywhere the moisture can collect the lint trying to get out and it will eventually be a restriction. Then the heater overheats and allows the element to expand momentarily shorting out. So by taking the time and effort it will pay you back in spades. This should be done a few time's a year. The heat element (if needed) is part # WP3387747. The thermostat kit is part # 279769. Thank You.