Is your Maytag washer refusing to spin, or making a burning-rubber smell during the cycle? A worn or broken drive belt is a likely cause. The belt links the motor to the tub, and once it stretches, glazes, or snaps, the motor spins but the tub stays still.
Replacing the belt is one of the more approachable washer repairs. With the machine tipped back and one socket wrench, you can have it done quickly. Here is how.
In this guide you’ll learn:
- The signs of a failing drive belt
- The tools to gather first
- Simple safety steps
- How to access the belt and replace it
Signs the Drive Belt Is Worn
Ever heard a squeal or smelled hot rubber as the washer tried to spin? Those are classic belt symptoms. Look for a tub that will not spin, a belt that looks cracked or shiny and glazed, or pieces of belt at the bottom of the cabinet. Any of these means it is time for a new one.
What You’ll Need
- A replacement drive belt that matches your model
- A 5/16-inch socket wrench
- A flashlight or work light
- A flat-head screwdriver, handy for prying if needed
Note: Tools vary by model. Check your owner’s manual for the exact fasteners on your machine.
Safety First
- Unplug the washer from the wall outlet before you start.
- Turn off the water supply and disconnect the fill hoses.
- Use a helper when tipping the washer so it stays steady.
How to Replace the Drive Belt
Ready? Follow these steps in order.
- Unplug the washer, shut off the water, and disconnect the hoses.
- Lean the washer back so you can reach the bottom, and brace it safely.
- Find the belt shield at the bottom of the machine.
- Remove the shield bolts with the 5/16-inch socket wrench and set the cover aside.
- Slip the old belt off the motor pulley and the larger tub pulley.
- Route the new belt around the tub pulley first, then onto the motor pulley.
- Rotate the pulley by hand to seat the belt evenly in the grooves.
- Reinstall the belt shield, stand the washer back up, and reconnect everything.
- Run a short spin cycle to confirm the tub turns smoothly.
Pro Tip: Note how the old belt wraps the pulleys before you remove it. Matching that path with the new belt keeps it from slipping off on the first spin.
When to Look a Little Deeper
If a new belt does not bring the spin back, the trouble may be further into the drivetrain. Our guide on a worn belt and no-spin diagnosis helps you confirm, and if the belt is fine, a worn gearcase or a stripped drive hub can produce the same stuck basket.
For a wider look at spin failures, you can work through a washer that will not spin or broader top-load washer motor issues.
Wrapping Up
A fresh drive belt is often all it takes to get a quiet, reliable spin back. Here’s the short version:
- Unplug the washer, shut off the water, and tip it back.
- Remove the belt shield at the bottom.
- Slip the old belt off and route the new one around both pulleys.
- Reassemble and run a test spin.
Nice work. You just saved a service call.