Before inspecting the belt, unplug the dryer or shut off the power
at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock
hazard. Turn off the gas supply to your dryer.
A belt connects the motor to the
drum. If that belt breaks or is too loose, the drum will not turn
and the clothes will not dry properly. Inspect the belt for proper
tension, breakage and excessive wear.
Access to the motor and belt may
be easiest from the front or from the rear depending on your model
of dryer. If you are uncertain of the location of the motor, start
by removing the lower front panel. It should lift up and off or
it may be held in place with a few screws. If you cannot reach
the motor from the front, then you will have to remove the rear
access panel which is held in place by screws along the outer
edges.
The belt loops over the drum, under
the idler pulley and around the drive pulley on the motor. The
idler pulley (or tensioner) is a wheel on a flexible bracket that
keeps tension on the belt.
When reaching into the belt area
be careful of sharp edges on the cabinet and interior supports.
Reach in to the belt and give it tug. It should be taught and
have only a little give. Also, inspect the belt for cracks or
wear. If you see cracks or the reinforcing fibers show through,
the belt should be replaced.
Before inspecting the belt, unplug the dryer or shut off the power
at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock
hazard. Turn off the gas supply to your dryer.
