Fixing a Dryer Belt that Squeaks

You can tell when a dryer belt needs to be fixed or replaced, due to the squeaky sound it makes when you run your dryer. The belt will squeak when the drum rollers or the idler pulley are defective. Once the dryer belt is fixed, the parts causing the belt to be under stress can be repaired. This is a repair that can be done on your own, without having to hire a professional. There are just a couple of things you will need to complete this job. The steps are listed below.

Step 1 – Shut Off the Power Supply

Shut down the dryer’s power supply, by unplugging the electrical cord from wall outlet.

Step 2 – Remove Control Panel

Unscrew the 2 screws that attach the top of the dryer and control panel. Set the control panel in a spot that is far from the area you will be working in. Do not remove the wires from it.

Step 3 – Remove Top Panel

Take off the dryer’s top panel. Do this by removing the retaining clips which hold it down. Remove the 3 screws located at the panel’s back, and slide it off.

Step 4 – Remove the Front Panel

Removed the screws connecting the sides and front together. Swing out the front panel’s top. Now, lift front panel up from the retaining tabs on the dryer’s bottom.

Step 5 – Check the Belt

Examine the belt, to see if there is any damage or wear in it. If the belt is stretched, it will cause a squeaking noise while the dryer runs. It should appear tight and firm, without visible wear or damage. It will need to be replaced if it’s broken, damaged or loose.

Step 6 – Release the Tension on the Belt

Locate the idler arm at the bottom of the drum’s side, near to where the motor is. Push it back, in order to relieve some of the belt’s tension. Take the belt out from the motor drive and idler arm pulley.

Step 7 – Remove the Drum

Take the belt in one hand. With your other hand, take the drum and lift it up. With belt in your hand, slide the drum away from the dryer.

Step 8 – Inspect the Pulley

Spin the idler pulley with your finger, to test it. If it does not spin freely like it should, it needs to be replaced.  If this is the case, unhook it from the dryer’s base, and replace it with a new one.

Step 9 – Inspect the Drum Rollers

Check the drum rollers at the rear, which the drum rests on. If they do not spin freely, they will also need to be replaced. It is best to replace both of them at the same time. 

Step 10 – Put Back the Drum

Remove the triangular clips that hold the roller. You need a screwdriver and a socket wrench to do this. Place the belt around the drum. Put the drum back in its place in the dryer. The squeaking noise should now be fixed.