Replacing the heater coil in a Sears Kenmore model 417.9480 2301 dryer involves a series of steps to ensure safe and proper installation. The heater coil is responsible for generating heat to dry your clothes. Here's a general guide to help you through the process: 1. Safety Precautions: Unplug the dryer from the power source to ensure your safety during the repair. 2. Access the Heating Element: * Open the dryer's door and remove the lint filter. * Depending on your dryer's design, you might need to remove the top panel or the rear panel to access the heating element. 3. Disconnect Wires: * Before touching any wires, take a picture or make note of how they are connected. * Gently disconnect the wires from the heating element. These wires are typically attached with screws or connectors. 4. Remove Mounting Hardware: * Remove any screws, clips, or brackets that secure the heating element in place. * Carefully slide out the old heating element, noting its position for proper placement of the new one. 5. Install the New Heating Element: * Slide the new heating element into the same position as the old one. * Secure it with the mounting hardware you removed earlier. 6. Reconnect Wires: * Attach the wires to the new heating element, following the same configuration as before. * Ensure that all connections are tight and secure. 7. Reassemble the Dryer: * If you removed the top or rear panel, reattach it using the appropriate screws or clips. 8. Test the Dryer: * Plug the dryer back in and run a test cycle to ensure that the new heating element is functioning properly. Monitor the dryer closely during this initial cycle. 9. Check for Proper Heating: * As the dryer operates, feel the air coming out of the exhaust vent. It should become noticeably warm as the heating element generates heat. 10. Monitor for Abnormalities: During the first few cycles, pay attention to any unusual smells, sounds, or behaviors. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, immediately unplug the dryer and recheck your installation. Remember, this is a general guide, and the specific steps might vary for your model. Consult your Kenmore dryer's user manual or refer to online resources for model-specific instructions and diagrams. If you're not comfortable with the repair process, it's best to seek the assistance of a professional appliance technician.