How to Replace a Whirlpool / Kenmore Dryer Belt

If your dryer belt shows signs of wear and tear, it's probably time for you to replace it. This common issue is quite an easy fix, and in this post I'll let you know just how to do it!

Learning how to replace your dryer belt can help save you money. You don’t have to be a do-it-yourselfer to put on a new dryer belt. It is quite a common repair, and you’ll only need a few tools to do it. You’ll need: Phillips screwdriver, putty knife, 5/16th socket or nut driver, and a small container for the screws. This article will explain how to replace a Whirlpool / Kenmore dryer belt, for the models with the lint filter on top.

If your dryer has the lint filter on the top, here is the way to replace the belt. The first thing you should always do before performing repairs on any appliance is unplug the unit from power. Not doing so could result in severe damages to yourself and your appliance. Slide out your lint filter, and remove the two screws that are exposed. Next, take your putty knife and slide it under the top of the dryer, pop up the top by lifting up on the left and right corners on the front of the dryer. Then lift up the top, flip it back, and prop it on a wall if you can.

Now that the inside of the dryer is exposed, you will need to remove the front panel to get to the belt. There are two screws you need to remove to take off the front panel, and they are located on the left and right inside corners. Once the screws are taken out, you can lift off the front of the dryer. Sometimes you’ll need to remove the door switch to completely remove the front.

Now you can remove your old belt. You may need another person to help you to hold up the drum for this part. Take out your new belt, and place it over the drum with the grooves touching the drum, make sure it is not twisted otherwise it will just fall off once you start your machine. Next, you’ll need to get under the drum where the motor and pulley are located. The belt will need to go through the pulley, and attached to the motor shaft. If this was done correctly, the pulley will apply tension to the belt.

Now you’re done with the installation of your new dryer belt. And to finish you’ll need to re-assemble your dryer. When you put back the front panel of your machine, make sure the tabs on the bottom are lined up with the panel itself, it should just snap into place. Replace the screws on the inside right and left corners, then flip the top of the dryer back down. This should also snap back into place. Then just put back the screws on the top where the lint filter goes, and slide the lint trap in. The last thing is to plug in your dryer, and you’ll be back in business.

I hope this helped you learn how to replace a Whirlpool / Kenmore dryer belt!
If you have any other questions feel free to comment, or call us at (715) 392-4808.
-Balcums