Can start the dryer by turning the start switch and holding it on and the dryer runs but as soon as I release the switch back to the left the dryer stops? thanks.

you have a bad belt switch,if the dryer stays running while you hold the start button on and stops when you release the button its the belt switch part WD21X10261 i've seen this a few times,go here and look at part 803 this is the bad part.
www.searspartsdirect.com/model-number/DPXR473EW0WW/0432/0151200.html

Hello,

That sounds very typical of a broken belt. GE dryers use a belt switch that will cause exactly as your describing...the motor will run as long as holding the start switch and as soon as you release it the motor will stop if the belt switch is not satisfied that the belt is in place...so it again sound very much like the belt is broken.

The part number for the belt is WE12M29 it could be purchased at your local appliance parts store or online at;
searspartsdirect.com
apdepot.com
partselect.com
apwagner.com
repairclinic.com

Hi,

There can be many reasons why your dryer will not start or turn...

The most common causes are the belt breaking or jumping off, or the motor going bad...

Here are a couple of tips that I wrote will help you to figure out why your dryer will not run...

Dryer Repair - The Dryer is not Turning

Dryer Repair - The dryer will not start


heatman101
................................

Most likely, the centrifugal switch on the motor has failed. The switch is activated when the motor starts turning and keeps the machine running after the start button is released. The switch has two small springs that pull it back into place when the motor stops. One or both of the springs has probably broken.

I had the same problem with my kemore. Thank goodness I still had it under warranty.
The tech said the door latch was just slightly ajar. This is common he said that when we take clothes out we let the door close to hard or gets ajar for leaning in to take clothes out.
He readjusted it and I have never had a problem with it again.
Hope this helps

There is a switch assembly on the motor that activates when the motor is running. Centrifugal switch. It keeps it running when you release the switch. That is where to start. Eric

Hi, this is a simple issue here. these switches will fail from time to time. the start switch is unable to hold the circuit, in return, opening it upon release of the button.

Simply replacing the switch will fix this issue. switch is 20 dollars tops.

Switch on fan motor not working sw must prove that fan is running! bad motor sw or loose wireing motor sw will by pass start button is released if working!

there is a holding contact at the motor wiring, check the schematics and trace that holding contact. it should hold the motor running as soon as it starts.

tnx 4 using fixya,

drcool

start switch is bad,it is stuck inside,get the model number inside dryer door or on top panel,call local appliance parts store to get new part,only a few bucs,replace and you should be allright,let me know-mike