The Thermal Cut-Off is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool dryers. It serves as a crucial safety component, automatically disconnecting power to the dryer's heating element if temperatures rise too high. This protects against overheating that could potentially cause a fire.  Symptoms of a bad thermal cut-off can include: dryer failing to heat during cycles abnormal noises or smells coming from the dryer error codes related to temperature loose/damaged wires near the heating element Causes of failure typically involve repeated exposure to excessive heat over long periods of use, though sometimes surges or physical damage can also trigger problems.  This Whirlpool part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.Part Number WP8573713 (AP6013467) replaces 8573713, 1180872, PS11746693.