How to Replace Rollers in a Clothes Dryer

Worn-down or defective drum support rollers can cause your dryer to malfunction, which could result in overheating or torn clothes. If your clothes are damaged, check the interior of the dryer first to make sure the drum is smooth and that there are no visible defects inside the dryer compartment. Replace the rollers in most clothes dryers yourself with the correct replacement parts.

Things You'll Need

• Putty knife
• Screwdriver
• Gloves

Instructions

1. Unplug the dryer and pull it out from the wall so you have room to work. Remove the lint filter.

2. Slide a putty knife in the crevice between the top and the front of the dryer near each corner. Most dryers have a small clip on either side that you can push in with the putty knife. Push the clips in and pull the putty knife up to release them.

3. Lift the top of the dryer up and release the wires from the clip near the door switch. Make a note of where the wires plug in so that you can reassemble the dryer.

4. Remove any screws holding the front panel to the top of the dryer and pull the front panel toward you until the drum slides out of its bearing.

5. Push the idler pulley back and slip the belt off the motor beneath the drum. The idler pulley is a small roller on a bracket over the motor. Leave the belt on the drum and slide it out of the dryer cabinet. Be careful of sharp edges on the drum and wear gloves to protect your hands if necessary.

6. Remove the roller wheels from the clips near the back of the dryer. You may notice metal dust underneath the roller, which indicates it is worn out and needs to be replaced.

7. Snap the new roller wheels into the clips. Make sure you have the correct roller wheels for the brand and model number of your dryer. Run your hand over the rollers to spin them and make sure they are secure.

8. Push the drum back into the dryer cabinet, sliding it over the roller wheels. Push the idler pulley back over the motor and loop the belt back over the pulley and the motor. Make sure the belt forms a right angle to the shaft holding the idler pulley so that it does not snap off when you start the dryer.

9. Position the front panel back over the dryer cabinet and reattach the door switch wires. Push the front of the drum back over the front bearings until it falls into place. Replace any screws you removed, lower the top of the dryer and push down until you hear the clips lock into place. Replace the lint filter and plug the dryer back in, pushing it back against the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• The process for replacing the roller wheels will vary slightly depending on the brand and model number of your dryer. If you are not comfortable taking your dryer apart, call a licensed repair professional to avoid damaging your dryer.

References

• The Appliance Clinic: Replacing Drum Support Rollers