GE dryer high pitched squeak
#1
10-17-11, 09:08 PM
GE dryer high pitched squeak
My GE dryer just started making a very high pitched squeak. I ASSUME it is the belt. I took out half the load and the sound was not as bad and the longer it ran the quieter it got, I would think as the moisture left the clothes the load became lighter and therefore less load on the belt.
Do you think I am on the right track or do I need to take it apart to check before buying a belt?
Thanks guys.
Do you think I am on the right track or do I need to take it apart to check before buying a belt?
Thanks guys.
#2
10-17-11, 11:10 PM
It sounds to me that it is more likely the idler pulley, also known as the belt tensioner. This is small wheel that applies tension to the belt between the motor pulley and dryer drum. Often the bearings fail and or become dry (they are not made for lubricating but trying that may improve things for the short term) and this often causes the squeeking noises. You will likely end up buyer a new idler pulley, and once you have it apart it makes sense to also install a new belt.
#3
10-18-11, 02:41 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
GE dryer almost always wear out the front bearing assy. Have to take top and front off to see. Sometimes with the top off you can look down and see pieces coming off. Give model # and can help.
#4
10-18-11, 08:06 AM
Thanks guys,
After doing an autopsy I have found that the front bearing assy is shot. Had I known to look at this I could have fixed it for almost nothing. BUT it is so worn the lip of the drum that rides on the bearing is worn as well to the point of it is about to break off. There are cracks at places around the perimeter of the drum lip.
At this point is it worth a new drum or just get a new dryer? The dryer is 15 years old, a gas unit that until now has worked fine.
Thanks.
After doing an autopsy I have found that the front bearing assy is shot. Had I known to look at this I could have fixed it for almost nothing. BUT it is so worn the lip of the drum that rides on the bearing is worn as well to the point of it is about to break off. There are cracks at places around the perimeter of the drum lip.
At this point is it worth a new drum or just get a new dryer? The dryer is 15 years old, a gas unit that until now has worked fine.
Thanks.
#5
10-19-11, 03:05 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
15 year old dryer drum and bearing assy will cost almost as much as a new dryer. Maybe more Watch out if you take wife with you will need a new washer to,
