Customer Questions and Answers for Dryer Hi-Limit Thermostat by Whirlpool

Hello Tracy, This is most likely the thermal fuse WP40113801. It can also be the heating element WPY503978 or the high limit thermostat WPW10116735. These are bad to burn a wire so you should probably look for that. These are rather sensitive to excessive temperature, so it isn't a bad idea to check the exhaust ducting to prevent a repeat of the same issue. The exhaust is more important than most will give it. If the air flow is restricted the heat, lint, and moisture will simply blow past the felt seals, back into the cabinet with all of your heat and moisture sensitive electrical devices. The thermal fuse is just that........thermal. This means that it is opened by temperature. If it is open, which is what the issue most likely is, it was caused by the exhaust not allowing the heat, lint, and moisture to exit the unit. As per all of the manufacturers, flexible ducting is not recommended. It tends to get crimped and clogged too easily and causes customers to think that the dryer is "a piece of junk". In actuality, the most important part of the dryer isn't even part of the dryer. It's the exhaust duct! If you replace the thermal fuse without correcting the exhaust duct, the thermal fuse will most likely just blow again.