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How to replace the belt tensioner in your dryer

Introduction

A worn belt tensioner lets the drum belt wander, causes thumping noises and can even shred the belt. Replacing the wheel restores quiet, smooth operation and prevents further damage. Follow this guide whenever the wheel is visibly worn, noisy or the belt keeps drifting.

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Unplug the dryer from the mains to eliminate all risk of electric shock.

  2. Edit

    • Slide the condensate container completely out of the machine and set it aside.

  3. Edit

    • Remove the two plastic-thread screws hidden inside the condenser housing with a Phillips screwdriver.

  4. Edit

    • Loosen the single corner screw and the four rear screws that secure the service side panel using hand tools where space is tight.

    • Remove the four screws along the lower edge of the same panel.

  5. Edit

    • Lift the loosened panel slightly and pull it away to expose the dryer’s service side.

  6. Edit

    • Identify the tensioner wheel mounted beside the motor and note that the motor must come out for replacement.

  7. Edit

    • Undo the 13 mm nut on the rear drum pulley and slide the pulley off the shaft, freeing the belt.

    • Wipe away the small pool of moisture that normally collects around the shaft after the pulley is removed.

    • Inspect the nearby thermal fuse; replace it if the trip tab is raised.

  8. Edit

    • Remove the two recessed Phillips screws holding the cooling impeller with a right-angle screwdriver for easier access.

  9. Edit

    • Depress and withdraw the two metal spring clips on each side of the motor to free it from its cradle.

  10. Edit

    • Unplug the keyed motor connector; its design prevents incorrect reconnection.

  11. Edit

    • Remove the four Torx T25 screws that secure the motor mount from underneath the dryer.

    • Mark the original screw positions because the mount can slide about one centimetre to set belt tension.

  12. Edit

    • Rotate the freed motor and belt out of the cabinet, removing the felt seal if it blocks the path.

  13. Edit

    • Slide the worn tensioner wheel off its axle and discard it.

    • Replace the felt spacer if it shows noticeable wear.

  14. Edit

    • Degrease the axle and surrounding surfaces with solvent and blow off dust using compressed air.

    • Apply a light coat of grease to the axle to ensure smooth, silent rotation.

  15. Edit

    • Press the new tensioner wheel onto the lubricated axle and confirm it spins freely without side play.

  16. Edit

    • Reinstall the motor in its original slot, tighten the Torx screws, reconnect the wiring and refit the retaining clips.

    • Reattach the impeller, drum pulley, belt, side panel, all screws and the condenser tank following the removal steps in reverse order.

Conclusion

Plug the dryer back in and run a short cycle to confirm quiet, stable drum rotation. The fresh tensioner will keep the belt centred and extend the life of both belt and bearings.

Author

with 1 other contributor

Ula Gantar

Member since: 01/08/25

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