Over time, the bearings in your GE dryer can wear down, leading to loud squeaking, grinding, or rattling noises when the drum spins. Replacing the worn-out bearings can reduce the noise and restore your dryer’s smooth operation. This is a manageable DIY repair that can typically be completed in about an hour.
To make the repair effective, it’s best to replace both bearings at the same time. If one bearing is worn, the other is likely in similar condition, so replacing them together will save time and prevent further issues down the road.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing the bearings in your GE dryer.
What Are Drum Bearings & Why Are They Important?
Drum bearings are essential components in your GE dryer that allow the drum to spin without friction. Your dryer uses four bearings in total, with two green ones located at the top of the drum support frame and two white ones positioned lower down. These bearings work together to keep the drum spinning smoothly during each cycle.
Common Symptoms of Worn Dryer Bearings
Worn drum bearings in your dryer can cause several noticeable symptoms. Some of the most common signs include:
- Loud Noises: Grinding, squealing, or thumping noises are typical indicators of bearing problems. As the bearings wear down, the drum can rub against other parts, causing these sounds.
- Drum Not Spinning Properly: If the bearings are severely damaged, the drum may not rotate smoothly or may get stuck. This could lead to improper drying and longer drying times.
- Excess Vibration: A dryer that vibrates excessively during operation can indicate worn-out bearings. The uneven spinning of the drum creates more movement than usual.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to inspect the bearings and replace them if necessary.
Benefits of Replacing Dryer Bearings
Replacing worn-out bearings can bring several benefits to your GE dryer:
- Reduced Noise: New bearings help the drum spin quietly and smoothly, eliminating the squeaking, grinding, or rattling sounds caused by worn bearings.
- Improved Efficiency: A smoothly spinning drum allows your dryer to work more efficiently, potentially reducing drying times and energy consumption.
- Prolonged Dryer Life: Regular maintenance and replacing damaged components can extend the lifespan of your dryer, preventing more costly repairs in the future.
Tools You’ll Need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flat blade screwdriver
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Compatible replacement bearing(s) (make sure they match your dryer model)
Safety Precautions
Before starting any repair on your dryer, it’s important to prioritize safety. Follow these tips to stay safe:
- Always turn off the power and unplug the dryer, or switch off the circuit breaker, to avoid the risk of electric shock.
- Wait for the dryer to cool down if it has been recently used.
- Take your time to ensure accurate work. Rushing can lead to mistakes and accidents.
- Work in a well-lit area for better visibility and easier access to parts.
- Keep your workspace organized and free from obstacles. Make sure children and pets are kept away from the area.
- Check the appliance’s user manual for specific instructions or safety guidelines regarding the replacement parts.
- Handle parts gently to avoid damaging the dryer or injuring yourself.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges and debris.
- Consider wearing safety glasses or a dust mask to protect your eyes and lungs from dust, chemicals, or small particles.
How to Replace the GE Dryer Bearings
Turn Off and Unplug the Dryer
Before starting the repair, turn off the dryer and unplug it from the power outlet to avoid electrical hazards.
Remove the Dryer Panels
- Open the dryer door and locate the screws in the top corners of the rear panel.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws.
- Close the door and move to the back of the dryer. Remove the three screws along the top edge of the control panel.
- Carefully tilt the back panel forward, slide it to the left to clear the retaining tabs, and pull it out. Set the panel aside.
- Lift the edges of the top panel and slide it backward to remove it. Set the top panel aside.
- Locate the two 1/4-inch screws at the top corners of the front panel. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove them.
- Lift the front panel slightly to release it from the dryer drum, tilt it forward, and lift it off the bottom hinges.
Find and Remove the Worn Bearing
- At the top of the drum support frame, locate the green bearings (on top) and the white bearings (lower down).
- Identify the green bearing near the top that needs replacing.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry the worn bearing off its mounting hook.
- Rotate the retaining clip out of the hook to remove the old bearing.
- Inspect the tub/bearing support for any damage and replace it if needed.
Install the New Bearing
- Orient the new bearing with the clip side first.
- Hook the clip under the retaining protrusion and rotate it into place to lock it onto the support frame.
- Bend the bearing slightly and press it into the slot, making sure it slips over the small metal pin to secure it.
- Replace both bearings in the pair, as a worn-out bearing typically means the other is deteriorating as well.
Reassemble the Dryer
- Lift the drum slightly and slide the front panel back into place.
- Align the side tabs with their corresponding slots and reinsert the two 1/4-inch screws along the top edge. Tighten them securely.
- Position the rear edge of the top panel first, aligning its tabs with the retaining slots. Push the panel down to lock it into place.
- Open the dryer door and re-tighten the two Phillips screws in the top corners.
- Reattach the control panel by lining up the bottom tabs and sliding it to the right until it locks into place.
- Reinsert and tighten the three Phillips screws along the top edge of the control panel.
Restore Power and Test the Dryer
Plug the dryer’s power cord back into the outlet or turn the circuit breaker back on. Run a short test cycle to confirm the dryer is functioning correctly.
Wrapping it up, swapping out those worn bearings can turn your noisy GE dryer back into the quiet, efficient machine you need. It’s pretty amazing how a simple fix like this can save you from expensive repairs and extend your dryer’s lifespan. In just about an hour, you can eliminate those annoying sounds and enjoy smoother drying cycles once again.