My dryer makes loud squealing noise when in operation, I have opened and removed the front panels to access as about 1 month ago I had to replace the coils for the ignitor. I suspect for this issue, I have a bad idler pulley wheel, idler bracket, and or belt. From the front of the Dryer, while the tumbler turns, I can apply pressure to the idler bracket (pushing it back towards the rear of the dryer) which in turn causes the belt to rotate on the forward part of the idler wheel, this minimizes the noise and mostly silences it. Now that I have described the problem, I need some expertise on the following...
1. How do I know whether it's the pulley, bracket, or belt?
2. How do I disasemble the dryer to access this area so that I can replace the parts.
3. Is is worth it, while I have the dryer disassembled to just replace the idler pulley wheel, belt, and bracket.
4. Do i have to remove the drum? Top? back? whats the easiest way?
thanks.
Hello rmindallaz. Welcome to my Gas Appliances topic and the Do-It-Yourself Web Site.
Very first important suggestion, in my opinion (IMO) is to make a hand drawn diagram of how that belt loops over and under all pulleys. Very likely to save lots of lost time trying to figure it out during reassembly.
Once the cabinets inside is accessed, remove all suspected worn parts. Remember exactly how they are presently installed. Take pictures if need be.
Any part that moves or rotates can create noises. Same applies to the drum rollers, slider and/or glider parts the drum rotates on. Which part(s) to replace?
As a do it yourself project, best to inspect all parts. Equally so, replace all parts suspected to create noises or appear to be worn. Why? Helps to eliminate doing the job all over again, any time in the near future.
With this model and many other brands and models, good idea for the do it yourself person to have a service manual, if obtainable. Check with the local appliances parts store where parts can be obtained.
Rear removable panels and front panel removal is all that is needed to gain access. Drum removal will be required. Make note of where the belt rides on the drum and how the drum is supported by the front panel. Front drum location will have the glider/slider pads.
Retail appliance parts dealers can also help determine what the most likely possible problem may be. They will need the make, model and serial numbers. Appliance parts dealers are an excellent source for original replacement parts and problem resolving matters. Dealers are listed in the phone book under appliances.
Be sure the electrical power to the appliance is turned off, before attempting any repairs or services. Always check for gas leaks whenever moving the appliance and/or a service or repair includes any connection of a gas part.
DRYER SERVICE TIP:
It's always advisable to clean the entire exhaust venting system every 2 years. Or during any dryer maintenance, replacement and or repairs.
Dryer help here: http://forum.doityourself.com/showthread.php?t=159481
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While the dust cleaning suggested elsewhere is a good idea, before you do that, use your eyes. Look at the bottom of the dryer housing. No doubt you will see a lot of grey-colored dust, but you may also see something else -- perhaps a reddish dust from dried out grease and/or maybe some metal shavings. If you see either of those, above that point is likely where you will find the source of your squeal.
FWIW, a common culprit in the more recent Maytag designs is the right hand drum roller. It is just over the source of the heat, so the grease dries out and then -- well -- it squeals as the metal hits metal. If yours is in this shape, do yourself a favor and replace the shaft and the roller, as replacing either without the other is just asking for more trouble down the road. And don't forget to inspect the belt too. They aren't that expensive compared to the aggravation of taking it apart again.
Good Luck!
MK
Tags: maytag, dryer, bracket belt, create noises, front panel, good idea, idler bracket, idler pulley, idler pulley wheel, parts dealers, pulley wheel, replace parts
