Inglis Brand 3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement for Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Maytag dryers with black and white housing.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown on an informational product display card.
WP3977456 dryer start switch specifications diagram showing dimensions and electrical ratings.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown with laundry room background and product information graphic.
Infographic showing high-quality materials of WP3977456 dryer start switch, including button, terminals, and housing.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown with dryer symptom troubleshooting icons.
Four-step installation guide for WP3977456 dryer start switch showing knob removal and wiring steps.
Table of compatible Kenmore dryer model numbers for WP3977456 start switch.
Compatibility chart listing Whirlpool, Roper, Inglis, Crosley, Estate, Maytag, and Amana dryer model numbers.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement for Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Maytag dryers with black and white housing.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown on an informational product display card.
WP3977456 dryer start switch specifications diagram showing dimensions and electrical ratings.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown with laundry room background and product information graphic.
Infographic showing high-quality materials of WP3977456 dryer start switch, including button, terminals, and housing.
WP3977456 dryer start switch replacement part shown with dryer symptom troubleshooting icons.
Four-step installation guide for WP3977456 dryer start switch showing knob removal and wiring steps.
Table of compatible Kenmore dryer model numbers for WP3977456 start switch.
Compatibility chart listing Whirlpool, Roper, Inglis, Crosley, Estate, Maytag, and Amana dryer model numbers.

3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers

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Enter appliance or equipment model number to verify compatibility with this part

3977456 / WP3977456 Dryer Push-to-Start Switch

Key Features

  • Momentary Contact Logic: Engineered as a "push-to-start" safety mechanism that only sends a momentary electrical signal to the motor relay, preventing the dryer from auto-restarting after a power flicker or door opening.
  • Heavy-Duty Internal Spring: Features a high-cycle tension spring designed to withstand thousands of presses without losing its "snap" or becoming stuck in the closed position.
  • High-Arc Resistant Contacts: Manufactured with internal copper contacts treated to resist electrical pitting and arcing, ensuring a clean connection every time you begin a drying cycle.
  • Standardized Spade Terminals: Equipped with two 1/4-inch male spade terminals for a secure, low-resistance connection to the dryer’s wiring harness, facilitating a true "plug-and-play" installation.

Replaces / Cross-Reference Part Numbers

  • WP3977456
  • AP6009036
  • PS11742178
  • EAP11742178
  • 898073
  • AP11742178
  • PD00003330

Compatibility & Fitment

This start switch is one of the most common components used in Whirlpool-built dryers over the last 30 years. Key compatible brands include:

  • Whirlpool & Kenmore: Fits hundreds of 29-inch wide residential dryers (e.g., Kenmore 70, 80, 90 series and Whirlpool Cabrio/Duet models).
  • Maytag & Amana: Compatible with various Centennial and Bravos series units produced after the Whirlpool acquisition.
  • Estate, Roper, & KitchenAid: Direct fit for value-tier and premium-tier models utilizing the standard console configuration.
  • Crosley, Inglis, & Admiral: Fits various specialty and regional brands built on the Whirlpool chassis.
  • Note: While this is a universal fit for many, verify the shape of the mounting "D-stem" on the back of your start knob to ensure a perfect match.

When to Replace

  • Dryer Won't Start: The most common symptom; you press the button and nothing happens, even though the dryer is plugged in and the door is latched.
  • Button is Stuck: The switch is stuck in the "In" position or feels "mushy," indicating the internal spring has failed.
  • Intermittent Starting: You have to press the button multiple times or hold it down firmly for the dryer to finally engage the motor.
  • Visible Burn Marks: Upon inspection, the plastic around the spade terminals is melted or discolored, signaling a high-resistance electrical failure.
  • Continuity Failure: Testing with a multimeter shows no "continuity" (beep) between the two terminals when the button is manually depressed.

Installation Tips

  • Safety First (CRITICAL): Always unplug the dryer or turn off the circuit breaker before beginning. You will be working directly with the 120V control circuit.
  • Access the Console: On most models, you will need to remove a few screws from the back of the top console or pop the top clips to tilt the control panel forward.
  • Wire Transfer (PRO TIP): Do not pull all wires at once. Disconnect one wire from the old switch and plug it into the corresponding terminal on the new WP3977456 to avoid a wiring mix-up.
  • Tighten the Terminals: If the female connectors on your wiring harness feel loose, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently squeeze them for a tighter "friction fit" on the new switch terminals.
  • The Door Switch Check: Before installing, verify your Door Switch is working. If the door switch is broken, a brand-new start switch will still not make the dryer run.
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 1
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 2
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 3
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 4
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 5
3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 6
  • 3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 1

    WIDE COMPATIBILITY

    Compatible with selected dryer models from major brands including Kenmore, Whirlpool, Roper, Inglis, Crosley, Estate, Maytag, and Amana (see full list below).
  • 3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 2

    PART NUMBERS

    Replaces multiple part numbers including 3977456, WP3977456, AP6009036, PS11742178, EAP11742178, and 898073.
  • 3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 3

    SAVING SOLUTION

    A cost-effective DIY fix to restore your dryer's performance quickly and efficiently.
  • 3977456 WP3977456 Dryer Start Switch - For Kenmore Whirlpool Maytag Amana Dryers 4

    IMPORTANT NOTE

    This is a compatible replacement part. Brand names are used for reference only to indicate compatibility.
4 SIMPLE STEPS

4 SIMPLE STEPS

Please unplug the washing machine and turn off the water supply & Wear work gloves before installing | 1. Pull the knob off the push-to-start switch | 2. Remove the back panel from the control board | 3. Use a small flathead screwdriver to pry down on the tab to release the switch | 4. Detach wires from the switch terminals. Reinstall with our new part!

Compatible Models

Locate the model number of your appliance or equipment on the manufacturer's label and use it to check compatibility before ordering

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Color
White / Black / Brass
Material
Plastic / Metal
Voltage
125 - 250V
Current
15A
Frequency
50 - 60Hz
Power Rating
1/2 HP
Number of Terminals
2
Product Dimensions
2-3/8 x 2 x 2-1/8 inches
Item Weight
1.0 lbs

FAQs

This push-to-start switch is used on select dryers and laundry center systems from Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Admiral, Crosley, Estate, Inglis, Kirkland, Magic Chef, Roper, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air. Compatibility is model-specific, so match your dryer's full model number and the original switch part number before ordering.
Known replacement and cross-reference numbers for this switch include 3977456, WP3977456, AP6009036, PS11742178, EAP11742178, and 898073.
The start switch sends electrical current to the dryer motor when you press the start button. If the switch is working properly, pressing the button should initiate the drying cycle once the door is closed and the timer or control is set correctly.
Common symptoms include the dryer not starting when you press the start button, needing to press the button repeatedly, intermittent starting, or a start button that feels loose or does not engage consistently. If the dryer has power but will not start, the start switch is one possible cause.
On many dryers, this is a moderate repair that typically takes about 15 to 45 minutes. Access usually requires unplugging the dryer, opening the console or top panel, removing the knob or control panel components as needed, transferring the wire connections to the new switch one at a time, and reinstalling the panel. Common tools are a screwdriver and, on some models, needle-nose pliers.
Before replacing the switch, unplug the dryer and confirm the issue is not caused by a tripped breaker, failed door switch, blown thermal fuse, broken belt on models with a belt switch, or a timer/control problem. Also inspect the wire terminals at the switch for heat damage, looseness, or corrosion, since a bad connection can mimic a failed switch.
These switches commonly fail from normal contact wear after repeated use, internal electrical arcing, heat exposure in the console area, or loose terminals that create resistance and overheating. If the button has been sticking or the switch has been pressed excessively to start the dryer, the internal contacts may be worn.