GE Dryer Timer repeated failure

[dwgwater]

GE gas dryer, GTDP490GD0WS. The original timer lasted about 3 1/2 years before the shaft wouldn't rotate easily and the knob split. I replaced the timer, WE4M527, but the replacement developed the same symptoms after about 8 months. I'm now on my third timer and wondering if there is something else that is causing the shaft to start binding. I've taken the two old ones apart and can't see anything wrong. I tried spraying some electronics Fader Lube into the workings, but no change when reassembled. Just bad luck with the second timer, or something else?

[Hiroshi]

Take a plastic zip-tie and cinch it tightly with pliers around the knob where it is splitting, it is much stronger than any glue... dry onwards.

[Scottthewolf]

Also make sure the customer only turns the knob clockwise.  Turning the knob counterclockwise damages the gears and the escapement.

[Lighthouse]

12 hours ago, Hiroshi said:

Take a plastic zip-tie and cinch it tightly with pliers around the knob where it is splitting, it is much stronger than any glue... dry onwards.

I have used this method before in a pinch. It worked great.

I just finished up a job for a lady that had broken every switch & knob on a GE washer. She also needed a new panel because she had broken it. She had me look at her fridge that had the paddle broken on the dispenser. 2 broken drawers in the fridge & all of the buttons were exposed on the dispenser panel because they had used them so hard. She is rough & heavy handed on her appliances.

[dwgwater]

Thanks for the suggestions. I don't think the dryer is being abused. The timer shaft binds. I can turn it with a pliers or vise grip, but it takes a good amount of force. I can't tell where or why its binding

[Hiroshi]

old cars never had power steering, just bigger steering wheels... so keeping the large timer knob on the shaft is the best way to keep this thing working... the pliers will wreck the shaft and the knob won't fit anymore.

[Chat_in_FL]

On 4/12/2017 at 1:13 PM, Hiroshi said:

keeping the large timer knob on the shaft is the best way to keep this thing working... the pliers will wreck the shaft and the knob won't fit anymore.

Don't know if it would work in this case (looks to be larger), but this knob has a metal band re-enforcement

 

Part number: we01x20374

[Terry.]

I have an electric GE dryer that takes this same timer. It’s 5 yrs. old and Replaced this timer twice and it just won’t turn even with Pliers now....any suggestions??? Sad girl :(. O

[MATTS]

Supco also makes a version of this knob with the metal reinforcement ring. very low cost and exactly same as OEM. have also used the zip tie trick, is a good idea.