How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6013380 / WP8566184 Dryer Timer Control

I'm not at all an expert in repairs...I learn how to fix things as they break by researching online so that I don't have to pay a repairman and by doing so have learned a lot of things as a homeowner, but this was my first dryer repair. My dryer had been working perfectly and then suddenly wouldn't start. The inside light still functioned, so it was still getting power. There was a quiet ticking noise coming from the back when plugged in which I determined to be from the timer trying to function. After researching here, I purchased an inexpensive multimeter and followed youtube videos to figure out how to test some of the most likely parts. The thermal fuse came back fine as well as the door switch and start switch. Did a visual inspection of the belt which appeared to be fine as well. Next I tried the timer which was supposedly only 1% likely to be the problem and was also the most expensive part...and of course, this was it. ;) There was a handy paper diagram taped inside the back panel of the dryer that told me exactly what to test for with the multimeter on each dryer setting, and after checking them it was apparent that the connection between two of the electrical connectors was faulty as it always came back opposite of what it was supposed to be--open when closed, closed when supposed to be open. There was also a slight rattle when shaking the timer as if a tiny part had broken off inside. I ordered the timer with overnight shipping which took 2 days due to a delay with Fedex picking up the part from APP (likely due to holiday delays). It was simple to install, and happily the dryer roared to life once it was in place and the start button pressed. Success! Always a relief when the part you order actually does the trick. Because I was extremely busy, it took several days to diagnose (waited for a multimeter to be delivered and checked parts as I had the time), but once I had the correct part in hand it was only 10-15 minutes to test the new part with the multimeter and then install (tested it first because I wanted to be sure while I could still return it that it actually tested differently than the broken part...more to confirm I was using the multimeter correctly than to test the quality of the part itself). Installing the part itself was super simple. Always grateful for the troubleshooting sections on this site and and DIY youtube videos that helped me narrow down what was happening and solve the problem. 

Replaced timer 

Found the points in the timer to be intermittent replace timer 

Installed a new timer. Works like a charm now! 

I replaced the timer and that has fixed both problems. Now I just wish AppliancePartsPros.com did hot water heater parts and advice. 

Replaced the large setting switch, dryer works fine now. The on-off switch tested good. Thermal switch tested good. Door switch tested good. It was the only thing left and so we replaced it. 

Replaced the dryer timer without any issues. 

I replaced the dryer timer. 

Replaced timer. 

I simply replaced the part after following the step by step video on your site and it was working within minutes! One of the easiest repairs I’ve ever done! Thanks so much!