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How to Fix a Squeaky Speed Queen Dryer

John Rose

A squeaky Speed Queen clothing dryer can be very annoying. The problem can be actually be one of several different issues. It may start out as a noise that comes and goes periodically. It will eventually grow louder and more frequent, until it reaches a point where it stops only when the dryer stops.

The first thing you need to do is to determine the cause of the squeak. In most cases, the idler pulley, drum and rollers simply need lubrication. If you have average do-it-yourself skills, you can take care of the problem on your own and avoid paying high service fees.

Warning

Always unplug the Speed Queen dryer before attempting to service it.

  1. Unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet. Pull the dryer away from the wall. Open the top of the Speed Queen dryer by inserting a putty knife in the seam between the top and the side panels to pry it open. Raised the lid and prop it against the wall behind the dryer to support it.

  2. Remove the front panel retaining screws from the inside of the dryer, using a Phillips screwdriver. Raise the front panel up and away from the dryer frame. Check the condition of the dryer belt. If there is damage such as cracking or splitting, you will need to replace it. If it appears to be in good condition, spray it with belt dressing.

  3. Check the pulleys and rollers for wear. If you are able to move them from side to side, the bearings are shot, and you will need to replace them. If they seem to be fine, spray the mounting shafts with lubricating oil. Check the inside of the dryer for metal shavings, and try to wiggle the drum from side to side. This will indicate a badly worn drum bearing.

  4. Spin the drum if there is no movement from side to side to rule out the possibility of the drum squeaking when there are no metal shavings present. Clean out any excess lint from inside the dryer while you have it open to prevent it from drying the oil out of the rollers and pulleys.

  5. Place the front panel on the dryer and lower it into the slot at the bottom. Install the retaining screws for the front panel, using a screwdriver. Lower the top of the dryer and press down until you feel it snap in place. Plug the power cord into the electrical outlet. Push the dryer against the wall.

The Drip Cap

  • A squeaky Speed Queen clothing dryer can be very annoying.
  • The problem can be actually be one of several different issues.
  • In most cases, the idler pulley, drum and rollers simply need lubrication.
  • If you have average do-it-yourself skills, you can take care of the problem on your own and avoid paying high service fees.
  • Check the inside of the dryer for metal shavings, and try to wiggle the drum from side to side.
  • Place the front panel on the dryer and lower it into the slot at the bottom.