3977393 WP3977393 Dryer Thermal Fuse - Pack of 4

Key Features

• High-Temperature Safety Cut-Off: Engineered as a critical non-resettable safety device that monitors the temperature of the heating element housing. It is designed to trip and break the electrical circuit if temperatures reach approximately 309°F.
• Precision-Calibrated Solder Link: Features a high-sensitivity internal thermal link that reacts instantly to localized overheating, providing a vital secondary defense against dryer fires caused by heating element shorts or severe airflow restrictions.
• Reinforced Terminal Interface: Equipped with two 1/4-inch male spade terminals designed for high-amperage stability, ensuring a secure electrical connection that resists pitting and carbon buildup over time.
• Durable Ceramic/Polymer Housing: Encased in a heat-stabilized, high-impact housing designed to maintain structural integrity while mounted directly to the high-heat environment of the metal heater box.

Replaces / Cross-Reference Part Numbers

• Primary Part: 3977393, WP3977393.
• Industry Standards: AP3094244, PS334299, EAP334299.
• Legacy Cross-Reference: 279816VP, 2651, 3399848, 3977393VP.

Compatibility & Fitment

This high-limit fuse is a standard safety component for most Whirlpool-manufactured dryers (Electric and Gas) produced over the last 30 years. Key compatible brands include:

• Whirlpool & Maytag: Fits hundreds of LER, LGR, MED, and MGD series models (e.g., LER4634EQ2, MEDC215EW1).
• Kenmore (110 Series): Compatible with virtually all 110-prefix models produced by Whirlpool for Sears (e.g., 110.60852990).
• KitchenAid, Roper, & Estate: Direct fit for dozens of budget-friendly and high-end top-lint-filter dryers.
• Amana & Crosley: Compatible with NED, NGD, and CDE series units utilizing the 3977393 style fuse.
• Note: Unlike the blower-housing fuse, the 3977393 is typically located on the side of the metal heating element housing.

When to Replace

• No Heat (Electric Dryers): The dryer drum turns and the air blows, but it never gets warm. This is the most common symptom of a blown 3977393 fuse on the heater box.
• Dryer Won't Start (Certain Models): In some Whirlpool-built designs, a blown high-limit fuse is wired in series with the motor, preventing the unit from starting entirely.
• "Check Vent" Light Stays On: If your dryer senses extreme back-pressure and heat, it may blow this fuse before you have a chance to clean the duct.
• Dryer Shuts Off Mid-Cycle: The unit stops unexpectedly as the heater housing reaches unsafe temperatures, cutting power to the system.
• Continuity Test Failure: Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the fuse shows "Open" (no beep), the internal link has melted and the part must be replaced.

Installation Tips

• Safety First: You MUST unplug the dryer. Since this fuse is part of the high-voltage heater circuit, attempting this repair while the unit is plugged in is extremely dangerous.
• Access the Heater Box: On most models, you must remove the rear panel of the dryer. Locate the metal cylinder or box that houses the heating element; the 3977393 fuse is mounted to the side of it.
• Inspect the Thermostat: This fuse is often paired with the **3387134 High-Limit Thermostat**. If the fuse is blown, it is highly recommended to inspect or replace the thermostat at the same time.
• Clean Your Vents: **CRITICAL:** A thermal fuse blows for a reason—usually a clogged dryer vent. Before installing the new fuse, use a vacuum to clean out the internal blower housing and the exhaust ducting all the way to the outside wall.
• Tighten the Connections: Ensure the wire terminals are tight when you push them onto the new fuse. Loose connections create heat, which can lead to premature fuse failure or melted wires.