How to Fix the Idler Pulley for a Noisy Dryer

If you notice that the squeaking sound in your dryer is coming from the front of the washer, then your idler pulley may be faulty. Over time, the oil in the bearing in your idler pulley will start to run out and become dry. The friction and dry rubbing will likely result in a squeaking or chirping sound. Eventually, you might notice a burning smell coming from your dryer. So, it is better to fix this problem sooner rather than later. If the idler pulley is damaged in any way, it will need to be replaced to fix your noisy dryer.

How to Diagnose an Idler Pulley

You'll notice that your pulley is going bad when it starts to squeak when the dryer is running a cycle. Diagnose your pulley by making sure that is spins freely when you rotate it. If it's stuck because it is jammed by threads or gunk, you should clean the pulley out. Otherwise, you would need to replace it.

What is an Idler Pulley?

The idler pulley is one of the parts that is responsible for allowing your dryer drum to spin. It is spring-loaded, which allows it to keep the drive belt under tension so that the belt remains firmly gripped around the drum and motor pulley. Over time, the idler pulley may succumb to wear and tear, as it typically spins at high speeds. If your drum is not spinning well and it is accompanied by a squeaking sound, this may indicate a malfunctioning idler pulley.

Where is the Idler Pulley Located?

The idler pulley is a small wheellike part that is found at the bottom of the dryer cabinet near the motor pulley and drive belt.

General Location of the Idler Pulley in a Dryer

What Type of Noise Can You Expect?

A squeaking or chirping sound while your dryer runs is indicative of a broken idler pulley.

How to Access and Remove the Idler Pulley

1. Disconnect the dryer from its power source for your safety.
2. Remove the top off your dryer and put it aside carefully.
3. Pull the front panel upward to disengage it from the dryer, then pull it off and set it aside. It may be held in place with mounting screws or clips, which you will need to remove first.
4. Firmly grip the front of the drum and pull it out carefully to access the pulley.
5. Inspect the pulley for any signs of damage. Also, spin the wheel on the pulley with your hand to see if it turns smoothly and without any loud noises.
6. If there is no squeaking sound, you will need to investigate another part of your dryer. However, if it shows sign of damage, and makes noise, you will likely need a new idler pulley.

How to Install a New Idler Pulley

1. Check out “How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Idler Pulley in a Dryer” for instructions on removing the idler pulley.
2. With the drum out of the dryer, you will first need to release the belt by pressing down on the old pulley.
3. Once the belt is free, pull out the idler pulley.
4. Install the new pulley in the same position and loop the belt around the new pulley.
5. Rotate the drum to make sure the belt is aligned.
6. Fit the front panel back on the machine and reconnect the lid switch wires.
7. Secure the top of the dryer back on the machine.
8. Plug in your dryer, and your repair is complete.

Next: Troubleshooting the Drum Rollers

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