Denver Colorado Appliance Repair Tips: How To Replace The Washer Drive Belt

Though most new machines use a different type of power generation system

, older washers tend to have a belt connecting the transmission and pump to the motor. Replacing one of these belts if they break or malfunction is more economically sensible than buying a new washer. If your machine is operating sporadically or sounds like its running when its not, you probably have a defective or broken belt. Other indicators are a loud squealing sound or a burning smell.

Most washers use a two belt system similar to that which you see in an automobile. One belt connects to the transmission and the other connects to the pump. Before you attempt to look at either, unplug the machine or turn off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel. Then, shut the water off. Once that is done, remove the back access panel on the washer and check for presence of the belts. If they're not there, turn the washer on its side and look underneath. If you still don't see it, your washer might be a direct drive model that doesn't use a belt. If this is the case, close the machine up and call your local Denver Colorado appliance repair service.

After the belt or belts are located, unscrew the clamps that secure the pump coupling so you can remove the belt. The pump coupling is the flexible rubber part that connects the motor to the water pump. Once it's loose, the belt should slip right off. On some models you might also need to loosen the motor couplings to slide the motor forward and relieve tension on the belt. When the belt is loose, simply slip it off and replace it with the new one. Replace the clamps and tighten the couplings. Make sure there's no more than a half inch of give when you press on it.

An important step here is to inspect all of the couplings, clamps, bolts, and screws you're exposing to make sure they're in good shape and unaffected by rust and corrosion. If you're going to go through the time-consuming process of opening up your washer, you should spend a few extra minutes and dollars to make sure all of your replacement parts are new. The hardware that you use to attach elements of your washer are often the most vulnerable parts of the machinery. The problem you're dealing with right now might be your belts, but in the future it could be something more complicated if you don't take preventative steps now.

Once the washer is re-assembled, tip it back upright if you laid it down and be aware that there may be water on your floor from the initial turning. Dry this water up and make sure any power cords are dried thoroughly before you plug them back in. Check your area for any extra parts that you may have neglected to re-install and only then should you start your washer to see if you managed to fix the problem. The squealing sound and burning smell should be gone.

Please be aware that we fully support extending your personal knowledge of appliances and appliance repairs, but to ensure that the job gets done correctly (and safely) please consider contacting a local repair technician.

by: Adrian Solis

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