Expert tips for testing & replacing the high limit cut-off kit in an electric Kenmore dryer

Tired of dealing with a dryer that won’t heat properly? Here’s how you can test and replace the high limit cut-off kit in your Kenmore electric dryer like a pro, no technician needed!

If you need any replacement parts for your Kenmore dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information in this article is based on model 11068722700 and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What you need

• Putty knife
• 1/4 inch nut driver
• ¼ inch socket

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Safety tips

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

How to test & replace the high limit cut-off kit on an electric Kenmore dryer

Step 1. Access the high-limit cut-off

1. Open the dryer door and remove the lint screen.
2. Use a putty knife to press in on the two clips holding the front panel in place, and then remove the front panel.
3. Use a ¼-inch nut driver to remove the screws holding the blower housing cover to create more space.

Step 2. Test the high-limit cut-off and heating element

4. Pull one wire off the high-limit cut-off.
5. Set your multimeter for continuity, and place the probes on the two terminals of the high-limit cut-off.
6. If the multimeter does not beep or show continuity, the high-limit cut-off and thermostat need to be replaced.
7. Check the heating element for grounding. Remove one of the wires from the heating element terminals.
8. Use the multimeter to check for continuity between the terminal and the metal housing. If the multimeter beeps or shows continuity, the heating element is grounded and needs to be replaced.

Step 3. Remove the high-limit cut-off kit

9. Remove the ¼-inch screw holding the heat shield in front of the heater box.
10. Disconnect the two-element wires from the heater box.
11. Disconnect the single wire at the back of the high-limit cut-off.
12. Tilt the heater box upward and pull it straight out.
13. Take note of the wire positions or take pictures to ensure proper reassembly.

Step 4. Replace the high-limit cut-off and thermostat

13. Swap out the high-limit cut-off and thermostat.
14. Reattach the jumpers to the new parts.

Step 5. Reassemble the dryer

15. Push the heater box back into place, making sure the lip fits into the hole at the back.
16. Reinstall the heat shield.
17. Reconnect the wires to the heating element and the single wire to the back of the high-limit cut-off.
18. Reinstall the blower housing cover and the front panel.
19. Insert the lint screen back into place.
20. Plug the dryer back in or reset the circuit breaker to restore power.

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the high limit cut-off in your Kenmore dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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