If your Whirlpool dryer is making a loud noise or not drying your clothes properly, it may be time to replace the belt. Replacing a dryer belt is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about an hour. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change a belt on a Whirlpool dryer. We will also provide some tips on how to troubleshoot common dryer problems.
Before you begin, you will need to gather a few tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You may also need a new dryer belt. You can purchase a new dryer belt at most hardware stores or online. Once you have gathered your tools, you are ready to begin.
The first step is to unplug the dryer from the power outlet. Next, you need to remove the back panel of the dryer. To do this, locate the screws that are holding the back panel in place and remove them. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the back panel off of the dryer. Be careful not to damage the wires that are connected to the back panel.
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Replacing a dryer belt requires a few essential tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need before you begin:
Tools:
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Flashlight (optional)
Materials:
- New dryer belt (make sure it matches the make and model of your dryer)
- Gloves (optional)
- Lint brush or vacuum cleaner
Additional Tools and Materials That May Come in Handy:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Multimeter | Checking continuity of electrical components |
| Socket wrench set | Removing larger bolts or nuts |
| Belt tension gauge | Properly tensioning the new belt |
| Assistant | Holding the dryer drum while you work |
Having these extra items on hand can make the repair process smoother and more efficient. However, they are not essential if you have the basic tools listed above.
Unplug the Dryer and Remove the Top Panel
Before you begin any work on your Whirlpool dryer, it is important to unplug it from the power outlet. This will help to prevent any electrical accidents. Once the dryer is unplugged, you can begin removing the top panel.
To remove the top panel, first locate the two screws that are located at the back of the panel. These screws are typically hidden behind a small plastic cover. Once you have located the screws, remove them using a Phillips head screwdriver.
Once the screws are removed, you can carefully lift the top panel up and off of the dryer. Be careful not to damage the panel or the wires that are connected to it.
With the top panel removed, you will now have access to the dryer’s belt. The belt is a long, rubber band that wraps around the motor pulley and the drum pulley. To remove the belt, simply pull it off of the pulleys. Be careful not to damage the belt or the pulleys.
Once the belt is removed, you can inspect it for any damage. If the belt is cracked, frayed, or otherwise damaged, it will need to be replaced. You can purchase a new belt at most hardware stores or appliance parts stores.
To install the new belt, simply wrap it around the motor pulley and the drum pulley. Make sure that the belt is tight, but not too tight. Once the belt is installed, you can replace the top panel and screws. Finally, plug the dryer back into the power outlet and test it to make sure that it is working properly.
Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in removing the top panel of a Whirlpool dryer:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unplug the dryer from the power outlet. |
| 2 | Locate the two screws that are located at the back of the top panel. Remove the screws using a Phillips head screwdriver. |
| 3 | Carefully lift the top panel up and off of the dryer. Be careful not to damage the panel or the wires that are connected to it. |
Locate the Belt and Idler Pulley
The belt and idler pulley are located beneath the dryer’s front panel. To access them, you’ll need to remove the front panel by following these steps:
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Open the dryer door and remove the two screws located at the top of the door frame.
- Gently pull the front panel away from the dryer, being careful not to damage any wires or hoses.
- Once the front panel is removed, you will see the belt and idler pulley located at the bottom of the dryer. The belt is a rubber band that connects the motor to the drum, while the idler pulley is a small wheel that helps to keep the belt taut.
Checking the Belt and Idler Pulley
Once you’ve located the belt and idler pulley, inspect them for any signs of damage. The belt should be free of any cracks or tears, and the idler pulley should spin freely without any noise. If you find any damage, you will need to replace the belt or idler pulley.
Replacing the Belt
To replace the belt, simply remove the old belt from the pulleys and install the new belt in its place. Be sure to route the belt correctly according to the diagram provided in your dryer’s user manual.
Replacing the Idler Pulley
Replacing the idler pulley is a bit more involved than replacing the belt. You will need to remove the mounting bolts that hold the idler pulley in place, and then carefully remove the idler pulley from the dryer. Once the old idler pulley is removed, you can install the new idler pulley and tighten the mounting bolts. Be sure to adjust the idler pulley so that the belt is taut.
Clean the Belt Area
1. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet.
2. Remove the rear panel of the dryer by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
3. Locate the belt area. The belt is usually located around the drum of the dryer.
4. Clean the belt area with a vacuum cleaner to remove any lint or debris.
5. Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage. If the belt is cracked, frayed, or has any other signs of damage, it should be replaced.
How to Clean the Belt Area:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Unplug the dryer and remove the rear panel. |
| 2 | Locate the belt area and clean it with a vacuum cleaner. |
| 3 | Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage. |
| 4 | If the belt is damaged, replace it. |
| 5 | Reinstall the rear panel and plug in the dryer. |
Install the New Belt
1. With the drum and motor pulley accessible, pick up the new belt and slip it onto the motor pulley.
2. Carefully lift the drum up slightly, being careful not to pull the motor out of place.
3. Slip the belt around the drum pulley.
4. Lower the drum back into place, making sure the belt is sitting correctly in both pulleys.
5. Rotate the drum by hand to make sure the belt is properly seated and not twisted.
6. Reinstall the front panel and the top panel of the dryer. Make sure all screws are tightened securely.
| Tools you’ll need: | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flathead screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver New dryer belt Flashlight Work gloves Safety glasses Reattach the Top Panel1. Loosely reattach the screws on the front panel. 2. Align the tabs on the back of the top panel with the slots on the front panel. 3. Push down on the back of the top panel until it snaps into place. 4. Tighten the screws on the front panel to secure the top panel. 5. Reattach the power cord to the dryer. 6. Replace the cabinet screws and tighten them firmly. 7. Check for proper belt tension by manually turning the drum clockwise. The belt should be tight enough to turn the drum smoothly but not so tight that it causes excessive resistance. If the belt is too loose, it may slip and not turn the drum efficiently. If the belt is too tight, it may put unnecessary stress on the belt and the motor. Adjust the belt tension by loosening or tightening the idler pulley bolt until the desired tension is achieved. 8. Replace the lint filter and make sure it’s properly seated. 9.
How to Change a Belt on a Whirlpool DryerReplacing the belt on your Whirlpool dryer is a relatively easy task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
People Also AskHow do I know if my Whirlpool dryer belt needs to be replaced?There are a few signs that indicate your Whirlpool dryer belt may need to be replaced, including:
What type of belt do I need for my Whirlpool dryer?The type of belt you need for your Whirlpool dryer will depend on the model of your dryer. You can find the correct belt by looking at your dryer’s user manual or by contacting Whirlpool customer service. How much does it cost to replace a Whirlpool dryer belt?The cost of replacing a Whirlpool dryer belt will vary depending on the model of your dryer and the cost of the belt. You can expect to pay between $20 and $50 for a new belt. |
