Hotpoint dryer needs drum pushed in order to start

Dryer Repair
1

I have a Hotpoint dryer, model NJLR473GT0WB from around 1995. It is similar to GE models.

When I try to start the dryer, it makes a loud buzzing noise exactly like this YouTube video I found.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_og12QJqm8

If I put some tape over the door switch and then reach into the drum and help it a little, the dryer will start and run fine. It will not start without a little help.

I replaced the motor but that did not help. The appliance place I bought the motor from thought the drum was bound up and suggested I replace the felt and glides. Despite the fact the drum moves smoothly, I replaced the felt and glides. It did not help. I also replaced the belt but not because I thought it was related to this issue. I replaced it because it was brittle and starting to fall apart. Also, three years ago I replaced the rear bearing because it was noisy and also replaced the idler pulley proactively at that time.

Any ideas what is causing the noise I am hearing like in the video? I suppose the motor could be bad but I really doubt it.

Thanks. I appreciate your help.

3

Hi.

It’s a good one. Check the belt switch, just bypass it and see if that makes a miracle.

This is all I can think off, sorry.

Post the results.

Simon.

4

Thanks for your idea.

The belt switch appears to be functioning correctly. If I remove the belt and let the tension pulley rod move over, the belt switch correctly prevents the dryer from starting (no noise, no nothing, acts completely dead as one would expect).