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When an electric dryer doesn't start it usually is because the thermal fuse is open but you indicate a humming noise which most likely is coming from the push to start switch or motor. The wiring diagram in the image below may help you with this problem.
You will need access to a volt/ohm meter and be comfortable using it to diagnose this problem.

Without a meter you can try to localize the humming sound you are hearing. If it seems to be from the top/console area then it is likely the push to start switch that is humming.

If the humming seems to be coming from below then the motor is possibly the problem. To check the motor you can check the start circuit (as drawn) and see if the winding is open. If the winding is okay then the most definitive check is to check voltage across the blue wire on 4M to the white wire on 5M when the start button is pushed. Use extreme caution if you try this.

Something else to try if you don't have a meter is while the dryer is humming (but not starting) you should try giving the drum a push and see if it starts. If it does and the voltage is okay the problem will be the motor.

http://www.eserviceinfo.com/index.php?what=search2&searchstring=KENMORE+DRYER.doc
Manual here

12 years ago. Rating: 2
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