279838 Dryer Heating Element & Thermal Safety Kit

Key Features

• Full Kit Set: 1 x 279838 Dryer Heating Element, 1 x 3392519 Dryer Thermal Fuse, 1 x 3977393 Dryer Thermal Fuse, 1 x 3387134 Dryer Cycling Thermostat, 1 x 3977767 Dryer Thermostat.
• High-Efficiency Nickel-Chromium Coil: The 279838 element is manufactured with a premium Ni-Cr alloy coil that provides 15% more heat-resistance than standard versions, ensuring faster drying times and longer service life.
• Comprehensive 5-Piece Restoration: This all-in-one maintenance kit includes the heating element, the cycling thermostat, the high-limit thermostat, and two essential safety thermal fuses.
• 3387134 Cycling Thermostat: Includes a precision-calibrated thermostat that monitors internal drum heat and cycles the element on and off to maintain the exact temperature required for your fabric settings.
• Triple-Layer Thermal Defense: Features a multi-stage safety net with the 3977767 high-limit thermostat and dual fuses (3392519 and 3977393) to protect your home against potential fire hazards.
• Reinforced Ceramic Standoffs: Built with high-density ceramic insulators that prevent the heating coil from sagging or shorting against the metal heater box during high-vibration operation.

Replaces / Cross-Reference Part Numbers

• Heating Element: 279838, 279837, 279838VP, 3398064, 3403585, AP3094254.
• Cycling Thermostat: 3387134, 3387135, 3387139, AP3069101, PS344596.
• High-Limit Thermostat: 3977767, 3399693, AP3131941, PS351171.
• Thermal Fuses: 3392519 (WP3392519) and 3977393 (WP3977393).

Compatibility & Fitment

This kit is the "universal" heating repair solution for most Whirlpool-manufactured 29-inch wide dryers. Key compatible brands include:

• Whirlpool & Kenmore: Fits most 70, 80, 90, and 110 series models (e.g., 110.66722501).
• Maytag & Amana: Compatible with many Bravos and Centennial models using the 279838 element.
• Estate, Roper, & KitchenAid: Direct fit for dozens of traditional top-load matching electric dryers.
• Note: Specifically for Electric dryers. If you have a gas dryer, the heating element will not be compatible, though some thermostats may be.

When to Replace

• No Heat / Cold Drum: The dryer spins normally, but the air never gets warm—typically caused by a snapped heating coil or a blown thermal fuse.
• Dryer Won't Start: On many models, a blown 3392519 thermal fuse will prevent the dryer from even turning on as a safety precaution.
• Takes Too Long to Dry: A partially sagged or grounded element can produce insufficient heat, doubling or tripling your drying times.
• Dryer Shuts Off Early: A faulty 3387134 cycling thermostat can signal the dryer to stop before the clothes are dry or cause the unit to overheat.
• Tripped Circuit Breaker: A grounded element (where the coil touches the metal box) will cause the 240V breaker in your home to trip instantly.

Installation Tips

• Safety First: You MUST unplug the dryer from the 240V outlet. Electric dryers use high voltage that can be lethal—do not attempt a "live" test.
• Vacuum the Chassis: While the back panel is off, vacuum out all accumulated lint from the bottom of the dryer and the blower housing. This is the best way to prevent your new parts from failing.
• Check the Vent: Before starting your first load with the new parts, check your outdoor vent for restrictions. A clogged vent is the #1 reason these fuses blow.
• Handle Coil with Care: When installing the element into the heater box, ensure the coil is not stretched or touching any metal surfaces.
• Tighten Terminals: Ensure all wire spade connectors are snug. Loose connections create heat, which can melt the new thermostats and lead to another failure.