How to Remove a Washing Machine Basket from a Whirlpool

Whether you need to remove a clothesdryer's basket to replace something or are recycling an old machine, following the correct steps will take a tedious task and ease the tension.

Things You'll Need

• Dryer
• Pliers
• Wrench
• Putty knife

Instructions

1. Unplug the dryer from its electrical source and turn off the gas, if it is a gas dryer. This will prevent accidental injury that could result in death.

2. Pull the unit out from the wall and remove the back panel, which is held on by screws. Remove the front lower panel on the machine. Pull out on the bottom of the panel and push up. This should release the panel. Next, remove the top panel by inserting a putty knife under the top panel to release the spring clips. There will be one spring clip on each side of the dryer. Now, loosen the control panel on the top of the unit. There should be two screws on each end cap of the console. Remove them, then pull the console up and over the top of the unit.

3. Remove the drive belt found around the dryer drum. You will see the belt attached to pulleys at the bottom of the dryer casing. Slide the belt off, taking it off the drum.

4. Unscrew the screws that support the dryer drum. These will be found at the bottom of the inside of the drum. Once you remove the screws, you will disconnect the drum from the drum shaft. Locate the screw at the top of the drum and remove it. Some drums may have screws on the inside of the drum; if this is the case, remove them.

5. Take the drum out of the dryer housing.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep all tools out of the reach of children.

References

• Fix It Now
• Easy Appliance Parts
• :Bob Vila

Resources

• Thrifty Fun