Q&A for How to Change a Clothes Dryer Belt

Try switching the belt on the idler pulley and the motor pulley. You actually have it set up in the opposite order for most dryer models; the belt should be on the left of the idler and the right of the motor, not the other way around. Also, check to make sure your belt has the textured side facing inward against the drum. If you make those two changes and you still can't get the dryer to stay on, your motor is likely the culprit and you'll need to buy a new dryer.

The answer is maybe. On some dryer models you can 100% do this, but it's pretty rare. Unfortunately, most machines make the back panel a lot harder to remove than the front and the top. Even if the back panel would theoretically be the most convenient, most folks end up having to remove the front and top.

You should use the exact same model and purchase it directly from the same company that made your dryer. However, there are plenty of after-market belts out there that should be compatible with your drum if you can't get your hands on an original. Just read the descriptions on after-market belts to see if your specific dryer is mentioned.

Turn your dryer off and unplug it if you smell burning. The burning smell is usually a sign that there's lint built up in the filter or duct, which is a fire hazard. Clear those out. If you find a huge chunk of lint, that was probably the culprit. If you don't, your belt isn't attached correctly and the rubber is melting as it fights against the friction of the motor. Contact a repair professional to install a new belt correctly to stay on the safe side. If the belt also isn't the culprit, you could have a faulty wire or a bad heating element, both of which require professional help.

Usually, the idler pulley should be in between the drum and the motor. Your belt should wrap around the left side of the idler, and the right side of the motor. Again, there are peculiarities from model to model, but that's the typical arrangement.

Do a Google search for your model + serial number + replacement parts. The model and serial number is generally located on the inside of your dryer door or sometimes on the back of your dryer. There should be a rectangular-shaped white or metal tag about the size of a normal warning label with the information on it.

Disconnect the power first. Also, many dryers are made with really thin, sharp metal sides. Therefore, it can be helpful to wear a long sleeve shirt, and a pair of gloves to protect your hands.