220 dryer plug, 4 prong switched to 3 prong, how to?

Question

I'm replacing the cord on an electric dryer, I purchased it to replace another one, its used but in working condition. This replacement dryer has a 4 prong cord however, the original has a 3 prong, the outlet is 3 prong. How should I connect the 3 prong cord to work on the 4 prong replacement dryer?

Answer 1

Just buy the correct one.....it's much easier.  Go to your local electrical supply house instead of Home Depot or Lowe's.  They will be more knowledgeable and can help you better.

Answer 2

I think this is a question for Home depot/lowes electrician but I believe there are a few different plugs and a few different outlets available for electric dryers.  There might be a converter end but I don't think so.  

Answer 3

You should go back and get a 4 prong.  They make them 4 prongs for a reason.  There is the white(neutral), black and red (hot), and green (ground).   You will lose the ground if you go from 4 to 3 and that leaves you vulnerable to electrocution if one of the hot legs touches the casing. But if you must you connect the middle wire to the middle s***w and and two outer ones to the outer screws, it doesn't matter which goes to which.  I would however recommend that you somehow ground the casing.  But I really really recommend staying with 4.  Its like removing the airbags from your car for some silly reason.  

BTW there is NO adapter for this.  They don't have an adapter for a reason.....It is not safe.

Answer 4

Hi. It is basically the same except the green wire is connected to the dryer frame for a 4 wire system as shown in the attached website. If you look at the pictures you will see a 'jumper' that goes from the white, or neutral, to the frame of the washer. Just make sure that you have this jumper in place. It electrically bonds the frame to a neutral. Of course attach the black and red to the same leads.L1 an L2. N will be the neutral or white. This web site has pictures and with careful study you will attach it just fine. JUST REMEMBER THE JUMPER FROM THE NEUTRAL OR WHITE WIRE TO THE FRAME.

Answer 5

You need to get your hands on the installation instructions for the dryer; they will tell you if you can convert it to a 3-wire system from a 4-wire. They will also tell you what part number to order from them, if you can do it. Order their part, even if it is more expensive and even if you have to wait for delivery.

The NEC requires new construction to provide a 4-wire system for electric dryers and cooking appliances, it no longer allows the frame of the appliance to be grounded through the grounded or "neutral" conductor; a separate Equipment Grounding Conductor must be installed.

The NEC does allow an existing dryer to have its receptacle replaced with a three wire receptacle, and it allows 4-wire appliances to be installed on 3-wire circuits, as long as the grounding conductor is bonded to the grounded conductor.

If you are in doubt about whether you can do this correctly, have a repair tech from an appliance service company do the change.