How to Put Belt on Dryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Put Belt on Dryer?

To put a belt on a dryer, you will first need to turn off and unplug the machine.

Then, remove the lint filter and the screws holding it in place.

Use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to separate the top of the dryer from the body.

Undo two hex-head bolts to remove the front panel.

If the old belt is still attached, it may need to be cut off with a utility knife.

Slip the new belt onto the drum, with the grooved side facing inward and the flat side facing out.

Loop the belt under the tensioner pulley and around the motor pulley to make it taut.

Reassemble the dryer by fitting the drum into the rim of the front cabinet panel and securing it with hex-head bolts.

Swing the top back down and lock it into place, then replace the screws and lint trap.

Finally, plug in the dryer and it should be ready to dry your laundry.

Key Points:

  • Turn off and unplug the dryer
  • Remove lint filter and screws holding it in place
  • Use putty knife or flathead screwdriver to separate top of dryer from body
  • Remove front panel by undoing two hex-head bolts
  • Cut off old belt if necessary
  • Slip new belt onto drum, with grooved side inward and flat side outward

Did You Know?

1. The invention of the belt for dryers revolutionized laundry routines, but did you know that the first belt-driven dryers were introduced in the 19th century as a luxury item only available to the wealthy?

2. In the mid-20th century, dryer belts were commonly made from animal hides, specifically from cows and horses, due to their availability and durability.

3. Before the advent of automatic dryers, manual belt dryers were used, resembling a clothesline with a rotating drum powered by a hand crank. This required significant physical effort to dry clothes effectively.

4. One of the most uncommon and interesting uses of a dryer belt is its application in art. Some artists repurpose dryer belts in their artwork, incorporating them into sculptures, installations, or mixed media pieces.

5. The technique of attaching a belt to a dryer was actually patented by a German inventor named Karl Schneider in 1900. His patent application described the process and specific design elements that allowed for efficient and secure belt operation.

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1. Signs Of A Worn-Out Dryer Belt

A dryer belt is a crucial component in a Whirlpool dryer as it enables proper functionality. However, over time, the belt can wear out and require replacement. To determine if your dryer belt needs to be replaced, watch out for these signs:

  • Unexplained noises during drying cycles
  • Unusual squeaking or thumping sounds
  • Dryer not turning on or shutting down before clothes are dry

If you have observed any of these warning signs, it is likely that your dryer belt is worn out and needs immediate replacement.

It is important to address a worn-out dryer belt promptly to avoid further damage and ensure optimal performance.

2. Necessary Tools For Replacing The Dryer Belt

Before attempting to replace the dryer belt, gather all the necessary tools. To successfully complete the replacement, you will need:

  • 5/16th nut driver or socket
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • putty knife or flathead screwdriver
  • container for screws

These tools enable you to disassemble the dryer and remove the old belt. Having all the tools readily available before starting the replacement process ensures a smooth and efficient transition.

3. Step-By-Step Guide To Removing The Old Belt

To begin the replacement process, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off and unplug the dryer: Safety is important, and taking these precautionary steps will prevent any accidents or injuries.
  2. Remove the lint filter: Also remove the screws holding it in place.
  3. Use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to separate the top of the machine from the body, allowing access to the internal components.
  4. After doing so, locate and undo two hex-head bolts that secure the front panel.
  5. Once the front panel is removed, you can access the old belt.
  6. In some cases, the old belt may need to be cut off with a utility knife.
  7. Removing the old belt is crucial as it prepares the dryer for the installation of a new one.

Remember to exercise caution and keep safety in mind throughout the process.

  • Turn off and unplug the dryer
  • Remove the lint filter and screws
  • Use a putty knife or flathead screwdriver to separate the top of the machine from the body
  • Locate and undo two hex-head bolts that secure the front panel
  • Remove the front panel to access the old belt
  • Cut off the old belt if necessary
  • Prepare the dryer for the installation of a new belt
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4. How To Properly Install The New Dryer Belt

Now that the old belt has been removed, it is time to install the new one. Begin by slipping the new belt onto the drum, ensuring that the grooved side is facing inward and the flat side is facing out. The belt should be looped under the tensioner pulley and around the motor pulley to make it taut. This step is essential for proper functioning of the dryer. Take your time to ensure that the belt is tightly secured and properly aligned.

5. Reassembling The Dryer After Belt Replacement

Once the new belt is installed, it is time to reassemble the dryer. Start by fitting the drum into the rim of the front cabinet panel and secure it with the hex-head bolts that were previously removed. Ensure that the drum is properly aligned and seated before tightening the bolts. After securing the drum, swing the top back down and lock it into place. Then, replace the screws and lint trap that were removed earlier. This step is crucial as it ensures that the dryer is securely reassembled and ready for operation.

6. Final Steps For Restarting The Dryer

After completing the reassembly process, plug the dryer back in. Ensure that all connections are secure and tight before proceeding. Once plugged in, the dryer should be ready to dry laundry. Test the dryer by turning it on and running a short drying cycle. Take note of any unusual noises or malfunctions. If everything appears to be in working order, you have successfully replaced the dryer belt.

The process of putting a belt on a dryer can be accomplished with careful planning and attention to detail. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can replace the dryer belt on your Whirlpool dryer and restore its functionality. Remember to adhere to safety precautions, gather all necessary tools, and take your time during each step of the process. With a new dryer belt, your Whirlpool dryer can continue to efficiently dry your laundry for many years to come.


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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a dryer belt easy to replace?

Replacing a dryer belt is a relatively simple task that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and some patience. With a screwdriver and putty knife, you can easily disassemble the dryer and swap out the old belt for a new one. Following the proper steps and taking your time, anyone can successfully complete this repair without any major difficulties. So, don’t be intimidated by the idea of disassembling your dryer; with a little bit of knowledge and the right tools, replacing a dryer belt can be a straightforward and manageable DIY project.

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Which way round does a dryer belt go?

In order for a dryer belt to be properly installed, it must be oriented in a specific way. The grooved side of the belt should be facing inward towards the drum, while the flat side should be facing outward. This configuration ensures a secure grip and optimal functionality. Additionally, the belt needs to be looped under the tensioner pulley and around the motor pulley to keep it taut and maintain proper tension. By following these guidelines, the dryer belt will be positioned correctly for effective operation.

How does a belt dryer work?

A belt dryer functions by utilizing a conveyer belt to slowly transport dewatered sludge through a stream of heated air. The sludge solids, fed onto the belt, gradually move along the belt while being exposed to the hot air, typically at temperatures ranging from 80-180 °C. As the sludge moves through this heated airflow, moisture is vaporized, leaving behind dried solids which can then be collected and used for various purposes. This process allows for an efficient and continuous drying of sludge, reducing its volume and turning it into a more manageable and usable form.

1. Is it necessary to put a belt on a dryer, and if so, how do you properly install it?

Yes, it is necessary to put a belt on a dryer as it is responsible for connecting the drum to the motor, allowing it to spin. To properly install a belt on a dryer, you will first need to unplug the dryer and remove the access panel on the back or front of the machine. Locate the motor and tension pulley. Place the new belt around the drum at the center, and then guide it around the motor pulley and tension pulley. Finally, you will need to adjust the tension pulley to maintain proper belt tension and ensure the drum can spin smoothly. Exact instructions may vary depending on the specific dryer model, so consulting the user manual is recommended.

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