Change out a bad high-limit thermostat in a Speed Queen dryer: A complete guide

The high-limit thermostat in a Speed Queen dryer is a safety device that monitors the temperature inside your dryer. Over time, regular use and wear can cause the high-limit thermostat to become damaged. You may need to replace this part if the dryer doesn’t heat up, it cycles off unexpectedly or the high-limit thermostat repeatedly trips.

Fortunately, a few tools, a new part and some patience are all you need to repair your dryer and get it back in working order.

If you need any replacement parts for your 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 part replacement information provided in this article is based on Speed Queen model ADE4BRGS171TW01 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

• Replacement high-limit thermostat (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model before installing)
• 1/4-inch nut driver
• 5/16-inch nut driver

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.

Read more:  How Do I Know If My Dryer’s Thermal Fuse Is Blown?

Safety precautions

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.
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work.
• 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.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

How to replace the high-limit thermostat

Change out a faulty high-limit thermostat in your Speed Queen dryer by following these steps.

Step 1: Access the thermostat

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the bottom of the front access panel.
3. Remove the two screws, one on each bottom corner, that hold the upper front panel.
4. Rotate the bottom panel out to about 45 degrees and then move it down.
5. Take a picture of the door switch wiring for reference when reassembling later on.
6. Disconnect the wires for the door switch and set the panel aside.
7. Remove the four screws holding the front bulkhead to the frame.
8. Lift up the bulkhead slightly to clear any tabs, then move it down and out. Set it aside.
9. Remove the belt from the motor.
10. Use the belt to help pull the drum out and set it aside.
11. Find the high-limit thermostat on the left side of the heating element and remove the 1/4-inch screws holding it in place.

Step 2: Install the new thermostat & reassemble the dryer

1. Secure the new high-limit thermostat to the heating element with the 1/4-inch screws.
2. Reconnect the wires one at a time.
3. Reinstall the drum and belt. Make sure the drum rests securely on the back rollers.
4. Reinstall the front bulkhead and secure it with the 5/16-inch screws.
5. Reconnect the wires to the top front panel.
6. Angle the front in towards the top panel, and rotate it into place.
7. Secure the bottom of the front panel with the 5/16-inch screws.
8. Reinstall the bottom front panel and secure it with the final 5/16-inch screws.
9. Plug the dryer back in or turn the circuit breaker back on.

Read more: How To Replace A Thermal Fuse In A Dryer

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the high-limit thermostat on your Speed Queen dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts 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.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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