How to Replace a Dryer Belt on Whirlpool Models

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Here is a step by step tutorial on how to replace a dryer belt on a Whirlpool dryer. This can be a relatively simple repair that can save you time and money since you won't have to call in an appliance service professional for a common problem. However, if after reading this guide, it seems like more than you can handle, take the safest route and call a professional appliance service company.

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    Using your 5/16th screwdriver, remove the two screws under the lint filter. [1]
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    Pop up the top of the dryer and repeat on the other side. [2]
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    There will be two screws in each upper corner of the inside of the dryer. Remove both of these and put screws in container for later.
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    Pull the top away from the cabinet and then lift it up. Swing the front to the side and place it out of the way. You may need to disconnect the lid switch wires if they are not long enough to allow this. [3]
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    [4] To do this, the belt will be looped under the idler pulley and then attached to the motor. Reach under the drum and unhook the belt from around the motor.
    • The pulley may be just a spring part with a half circle the the belt runs around, with no moving part.
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    Then loop the belt under the idler pulley (that has a moving wheel) and attach it back to the motor. The idler pulley should apply tension to the belt. You may need an extra hand for this step since the dryer drum can sag down and make it difficult to reach the motor. [5]
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    If it has, use a screwdriver to pop the felt out while spinning the drum with your hand.
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    Make sure the small tabs on the bottom of the dryer match up with the small holes on the dryer front. Replace screws and lint trap.
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  • Question
    What happens if the wheel is missing from the idler pulley?
    Community Answer
    Many models did not have idler wheels, but instead just a semi-circle made of metal.
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  • Question
    My "small tabs" on the bottom of the front casing broke. Is there a substitute or another way to hold it in place? It's all fixed but the front casing is lopsided and I'm unsure if this will hurt it. What can I do?
    Community Answer
    The same thing happened to me. I drilled one hole on each side of that, below where the tabs were, and used a couple of drywall screws to hold it in place. That was several years ago and it has been working fine ever since.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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  • Question
    Where can I get a new dryer belt?
    Community Answer
    Appliance stores and larger hardware stores will carry replacement belts. Take your old belt with you and they can help get you the same size. If you don't have any luck locally, you can find a replacement belt for your model on Whirlpool's website, eBay or Amazon.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
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      Video

      Tips

      • When reassembling the door panel make sure the slotted tabs on the bottom of the door panel slip onto the screws on both sides of the frame near the bottom panel.
        Thanks
      • The inside of the dryer can accumulate a lot of dirt so it's a good idea to vacuum the inside while you have the dryer apart.
        Thanks
      • Place the belt around the drum first. Use a small can to prop up the drum if working alone. You will have to reach between the drum and front to remove the can before closing the front completely.
        Thanks
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      Warnings

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      Things You'll Need

      • 5/16th nut driver or socket
      • Putty knife
      • Container for screws
      • Phillips screwdriver
      • lightweight gloves to protect fingers when placing belt (under tension)onto motor shaft.


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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyLkMKr1YPg&app=desktop
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SyLkMKr1YPg&app=desktop
      3. ↑ https://www.partselect.com/JustForFun/How-To-Replace-A-Dryer-Belt-On-Whirlpool-Models.aspx
      4. ↑ https://www.partselect.com/JustForFun/How-To-Replace-A-Dryer-Belt-On-Whirlpool-Models.aspx
      5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzYmoS9brMY

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      Reader Success Stories

      • Gary Henderson

        Jul 5, 2018

        "This saved me a lot of unnecessary taking apart of other screws. I have worked on dryers before, but far and few ..." more
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