How to Replace W10117655 Push-to-Start Switch on Whirlpool Dryer — Step-by-Step

You press the start button, hear a brief hum, then nothing. Or worse — your dryer only runs as long as you're standing there holding the button down. One frustrated homeowner put it perfectly: "The dryer would not stay on after start button was depressed." If this sounds familiar, you're dealing with a failed push-to-start switch, and replacing it is actually one of the easiest dryer repairs you can tackle yourself.

The W10117655 push-to-start switch (also sold as WPW10117655, AP6015267, or PS11748542) fits dozens of Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, and Crosley dryers including models WED5000DW2, WGD4915EW2, WED4815EW, and WGD4995EW1. It's the component that completes the circuit when you push the start button, telling the dryer to run. After thousands of presses, the internal contacts wear out and fail to maintain connection.

What You Need Before Starting

This repair sits firmly in the "easy" category and typically takes 15-30 minutes. One user reported: "It only took me 5 minutes to change out the switch. Now my dryer works great! I saved my wife $500 for a new dryer!"

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Nut drivers or socket set
• Replacement W10117655 switch
• Work gloves (optional, for handling sheet metal edges)

Estimated Time: 15-30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy

Safety First

Unplug your dryer completely before starting this repair. Even though you're working with a low-voltage switch, you'll be accessing the control panel area where other electrical components are present. If your dryer is gas-powered, there's no need to shut off the gas supply for this repair — you won't be going near the burner assembly. Just make sure the unit is unplugged and you're good to go.

Step 1: Access the Control Panel

The control panel on Whirlpool dryers is accessed from behind the unit. Pull your dryer away from the wall to give yourself working room. You'll see an access panel on the back, just below where the control panel sits on top. Remove the 6 sheet metal screws holding this panel in place using your screwdriver or nut driver. Set the screws aside — you'll need them for reassembly.

Step 2: Remove the Start Switch Knob

With the access panel off, you can now reach the back of the start switch. From the front of the dryer, firmly pull the start switch knob straight off. It's a friction-fit piece, so it should come off with steady pressure. If it's stubborn, wiggle it gently side to side while pulling. Don't twist it — just pull straight out.

Step 3: Disconnect the Wire Harness

Looking at the switch from behind the dryer, you'll see two wire harness connectors plugged into it. Unplug both connectors by pressing the release tab and pulling straight back. Take a quick photo with your phone before disconnecting if you're worried about mixing them up, though the connectors are usually different sizes and won't fit the wrong terminals.

Step 4: Remove the Old Switch

Here's where the repair gets slightly tricky, but not difficult. The switch is held in place by a plastic retainer that locks it into the control panel. Gently pull the plastic retainer tab back with one hand while rotating the switch body about 30 degrees to the right with your other hand. The switch should release and pull out toward you. As one repair tech described it: "Looking at it from the back, gently pulled the plastic retainer back while turning the switch about 30 degrees to the right and out."

Step 5: Install the New W10117655 Switch

Installation is just the reverse process. Insert the new switch into the mounting hole, rotate it about 30 degrees to the left until you hear or feel it click into place. The plastic retainer should snap over it automatically. Reconnect both wire harness connectors — they'll click when fully seated. Push the start button knob back onto the switch shaft from the front. Finally, reattach the access panel with those 6 screws you set aside earlier.

Testing After Installation

Plug your dryer back in and push it back into position. Press the start button firmly. The dryer should start immediately and continue running after you release the button. Run a quick timed dry cycle for a minute or two to verify everything's working correctly. The button should feel crisp and responsive — not mushy or stuck.

If the dryer still won't start, double-check that both wire connectors are fully seated on the switch terminals. A loose connection can mimic a failed switch.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer only run when I hold the button down?

This is the classic symptom of a failing push-to-start switch. The momentary contact when you first press works fine, but the switch can't maintain the closed circuit needed to keep the dryer running. The internal contacts have worn out from repeated use over the years. Replacing the W10117655 switch solves this immediately.

Will this switch work on my Kenmore dryer?

Yes, if your Kenmore dryer uses the W10117655 part number. Many Kenmore dryers are actually manufactured by Whirlpool and use identical components. Check your dryer's model number against the compatibility list or look up your model on the parts diagram to confirm this is the correct switch for your specific unit.

Do I need to replace the knob too, or just the switch?

The knob is separate from the switch mechanism and rarely fails. If your existing knob isn't cracked or broken, you can reuse it on the new switch. Just pull it off the old switch and press it onto the new one. The W10117655 replacement includes only the switch assembly itself — the knob is sold separately if you need a new one.