How to replace the timer on a GE electric dryer

Is your GE electric dryer’s timer acting up, causing your laundry routine to come to a grinding halt? Whether it’s stopping prematurely or refusing to advance, a faulty timer can throw a wrench in your day. Fear not, we’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find a step-by-step how-to video that will guide you through the simple process of replacing the timer yourself, saving you time and a costly repair bill.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

On a GE electric dryer, the timer is responsible for controlling the drying cycle and allowing your dryer to operate through the various timed stages. Over time, use and wear can cause the timer to become damaged. Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your GE electric dryer back in working order. So, let’s get started!

Watch here: How To Replace A GE Dryer Timer WE4M271

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, 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.

What the timer does

The timer controls the various stages of the drying cycle including regulating the operation of the dryer motor, heating element, and other functions so that clothes are dried properly. As the timer advances through the cycle, it triggers the dryer to transition between tumbling, heating, cooling, and shutting off at the end of the cycle. The timer allows the user to select the appropriate drying time and settings for each load.

Symptoms of a bad timer

If the timer is failing, you may notice any of several symptoms:

• The dryer does not advance through the full cycle as expected, stopping prematurely or running continuously without stopping.
• The drum fails to tumble, even when the dryer is powered on.
• The heating element does not turn on, leaving the clothes wet at the end of the cycle.
• The dryer shuts off unexpectedly during the cycle.
• The timer knob is difficult to turn or does not move smoothly.

Possible causes 

There are a few common reasons why the timer on a GE electric dryer may fail over time:

• Normal wear and tear: The internal components of the timer can become worn out after extensive use, causing the timer to malfunction.
• Electrical issues: Problems with the dryer’s wiring or power supply can disrupt the timer’s ability to function properly.
• Physical damage: Impact, drops, or other physical trauma can damage the delicate internal mechanisms of the timer.
• Moisture exposure: Excessive moisture, steam, or water can corrode the timer’s electrical contacts.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms with your GE electric dryer, it is likely time to replace the faulty timer to restore proper operation. 

Also see- How To Test A GE Dryer Timer WE4M271

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 attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• 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.

Read more: How To Replace A GE Dryer Drive Belt

Tools and materials needed

• Replacement part (make sure it’s compatible with your model before installing)
• Torx 20 driver
• Flathead screwdriver

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:  7 possible reasons why your electric dryer won’t shut off

Replacement steps

Step 1: Disassembly and removal

1. Unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker to disconnect power.
2. Remove the timer knob by pulling it straight off.
3. Use a Torx 20 driver to remove the mounting screws along the top of the console.
4. Rotate the console forward to access the wiring.
5. Disconnect each wire from the old timer, taking a photo or making note of where each wire is connected.
6. Use a flathead screwdriver to lift up on the locking tab that holds the timer in place on the inside of the console.
7. Once the locking tab is lifted, rotate and lift the old timer out of the console.

Step 2: Installation and reassembly

1. Mount the new timer to the console, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
2. One wire at a time, transfer each wire to the corresponding terminal on the new timer.
3. Rotate the console back into position against the rear panel.
4. Secure the console with the Torx 20 screws.
5. Install the timer knob.
6. Plug the dryer back in or flip the circuit breaker back on.
7. Test the new timer by running a full drying cycle.

Read more: Electric GE dryer won’t start: A troubleshooting guide

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the timer on your GE electric 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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