How to Fix a Squeaky GE Dryer
A squealing or squeaky noise coming from your dryer can indicate either defective drum rollers or a defective idler pulley. You will need to have the owner's manual for your dryer to refer to the cabinet removal process. Once you have access to the parts, replacing what is causing the squeaky noise can be accomplished in a couple of hours. Before you start any repairs, disconnect the power to the dryer by unplugging the dryer from the wall outlet.
Remove the top cover and front panel of the dryer according to your model's owner's manual. If you no longer have the owner's manual, you might be able to obtain one on the GE website or from the dealer who sold the dryer to you.
Remove the four screws on the front of the drum bulkhead that attach to the sides of the dryer using a screwdriver.
- A squealing or squeaky noise coming from your dryer can indicate either defective drum rollers or a defective idler pulley.
- Before you start any repairs, disconnect the power to the dryer by unplugging the dryer from the wall outlet.
Press the idler pulley to the left using your hand to release the belt tension. The idler pulley is located between the drum and the motor on most GE dryer models. Remove the belt from the idler pulley, making note of the routing.
Lift the front of the drum with one hand and grab the belt with the other. Slide the drum out of the front of the dryer and set it aside.
Inspect the dryer idler pulley by spinning the pulley with your hand. If it does not spin freely, it needs to be replaced. Remove the idler pulley by removing the bolts that attach it to the bottom of the dryer. Take the old idler pulley with you to an appliance repair shop and get a replacement. Attach the new idler pulley by using the mounting bolts.
- Press the idler pulley to the left using your hand to release the belt tension.
- Remove the idler pulley by removing the bolts that attach it to the bottom of the dryer.
Inspect the dryer drum rollers by attempting to spin them by hand. Any roller that does not spin freely must be replaced.
Remove the defective roller by unbolting it from the dryer with an appropriate-size socket wrench. Replace drum rollers with drum rollers that are the same size as the defective ones. Attach the new drum roller by positioning it into place and tightening the mounting bolt.
Replace the drum and belt back in the dryer by seating the drum in the rear boot. Reattach the belt by routing it over the motor pulley and idler pulley. Pull the idler pulley to the right to apply the belt tension.
- Inspect the dryer drum rollers by attempting to spin them by hand.
- Reattach the belt by routing it over the motor pulley and idler pulley.
Reattach the drum bulkhead by using the attaching screws. Install the front and top cover to the dryer cabinet according to directions in the owner's manual.
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Writer Bio
Kenneth Crawford is a freelance writer with more than 10 years of experience. His work has appeared in both print and online publications, including "The American Chronicle." Crawford holds an associate degree in business administration from Commonwealth College.
