[louie123]

maytag dryer wont heat, and now wont start. I had a repairman out to look at it yesterday. He says it is the electric control panel and will cost $280 to repair.
Does this sound reasonable? Would it be better to just get a new dryer?

[denman]

Here is a link for parts and prices
Maytag MDE5500AYW

If you replace it yourself you save considerable dollars. Problem is if the repairman is wrong you are stuck with the part. Electronics parts are usually non returnable.

Here is a link to a service manual. Your unit is included
Free Appliance Repair Forum - Downloads

It does have some diagnostics so you may be able to confirm the his diagnosis.
The board definitely could cause this problem.