The drive motor in both electric and gas dryers powers the drum’s rotation and makes the clothes tumble effectively during drying cycles. It handles continuous vibrations and mechanical stresses, making it a critical component. Over time, parts such as bushings, brushes, and windings may wear out due to friction, heat, and mechanical strain.
If you’re tackling this repair for the first time, this guide will walk you through the process to help restore your dryer’s performance.
Symptoms of a Faulty Drive Motor
Knowing when a drive motor needs replacement can save time and effort. Watch for these common symptoms:
- The dryer drum does not spin, despite the motor running.
- The motor makes a humming noise but fails to start the drum.
- Burning smells or unusual noises are detected during operation.
- The dryer stops mid-cycle or fails to complete drying tasks.
- Visible wear or damage to motor components when inspected.
Reasons to Replace the Drive Motor
The drive motor may need replacement for various reasons, including:
- General wear and tear from regular use.
- The dryer fails to start or only operates intermittently.
- Signs of overheating or unusual noise during operation.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before starting the replacement process, gather the following tools and materials:
Tools:
- Phillips screwdriver
- 5/16-inch nut driver
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Wire cutters/strippers
- Small and large flathead screwdrivers
- Socket wrench with 3/8-inch socket
- Socket wrench extension
- Hammer
Materials:
- Wiring terminals
- Wire connectors
- Measuring tape
- Replacement drive motor (compatible with your specific dryer model).
How to Replace a Whirlpool Dryer Drive Motor
Follow these steps to replace the drive motor in your dryer safely and efficiently.
Prepare for the Replacement
- Power off the dryer and disconnect it from the electrical outlet to avoid electrocution.
Dismantle the Dryer
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws at the bottom of the front panel.
- Lift the panel slightly to disengage the top clips.
- Tilt the panel forward and lay it on its side.
- Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the four screws holding the bulkhead to the cabinet.
- Unclip the wire harness holder and move it aside.
- Lift off the bulkhead and place it on the front panel.
- Locate and remove the screws on each side of the cabinet top using a ratchet wrench with a 3/8-inch socket and extension.
- Lift the top panel off and support it against a wall or secure it with a strap.
- Reach into the dryer to locate the idler pulley.
- Pull the pulley sideways to release tension on the belt.
- Slip the belt off the motor and idler pulleys.
- Lift the drive belt and slide the drum out of the cabinet.
- Set the drum aside.
Access the Drive Motor
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws securing the cover.
- Remove the bottom screw with a 5/16-inch nut driver.
- Lift off the cover and set it aside.
- Compress the blower wheel clamp with needle nose pliers and remove it.
- Use snap ring pliers or a flathead screwdriver to remove the snap ring from the blower wheel shaft.
- Pull the blower wheel off the motor shaft.
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pry up the motor mount clamps, releasing one side at a time.
- Remove the clamps.
- Identify each wire connection by color or take a photo for reference.
- Use needle nose pliers to detach the wires from the motor terminals.
- Mark the drive pulley’s location on the motor shaft.
- Use a 3/16-inch Allen wrench to loosen the set screw and slide the pulley off the shaft.
- Remove the snap ring using pliers or a flathead screwdriver.
- Lift the old motor out of the dryer carefully.
Install the New Drive Motor
- Slide the snap ring onto the new motor shaft and seat it correctly.
- Align the drive pulley and slide it into position, tightening the set screw with an Allen wrench.
- Cut off the old terminals on the yellow and red wires.
- Strip 1/4 inch of insulation and crimp on new push-on terminals.
- Place the new motor into position, aligning the grommets and motor switch angle.
- Attach one side of the motor mount clamps and lock the other side with a flathead screwdriver.
- Refer to the diagram or photo to reconnect the wires to their respective terminals.
- Align the motor shaft with the blower wheel flat and push it into place.
- Reattach the snap ring and blower wheel clamp.
- Position the cover and secure it with the screws using a 1/4-inch and 5/16-inch nut driver.
Reassemble the Dryer
- Slide the drum back into the cabinet, placing it properly on the rollers.
- Loop the drive belt over the drum, motor pulley, and idler pulley.
- Replace the top panel and secure it with screws.
- Reattach the bulkhead, aligning the duct and securing it with screws.
- Swing the front panel into place, engage the top clips, and secure it with screws.
Final Steps
- Plug the dryer back in and run a short test cycle to verify proper operation.
Preventing Future Drive Motor Issues
Extend the lifespan of your new drive motor by following these maintenance tips:
- Avoid overloading the dryer, as this puts excess strain on the motor.
- Regularly clean the lint filter and dryer vents to prevent airflow obstruction.
- Inspect the motor area during routine maintenance for signs of wear or debris.
- Operate the dryer using appropriate settings for the type of load.
- Schedule periodic inspections of internal components to identify potential issues early.
Summing Up
Many people replace the whole dryer when the motor fails, wasting money and resources on something that could be repaired. By following this guide, you’ve not only saved on costs but also gained the skills to fix it yourself. Your dryer is back in action, and you’ve avoided unnecessary expenses.