How to Replace a Drive Belt in Your Washer

In order to spin the tub of your washer, it uses a system made up of a motor, pulleys, and a belt. The belt is responsible for actually turning the tub so it will agitate your clothes. However, if your washer tub as recently stopped turning, or it turning intermittently, you may need to replace the drive belt. This repair is almost assured if, before the washer stopped spinning, you noticed a distinct burning rubber smell.

Before attempting to replace your drive belt, you should first disconnect the machine from the water and the power source. While this repair involves a part that doesn’t technically use either, it is for safety and you may need to pull your washer out quite a bite to reach the back panel.

The most difficult part of this repair is actually finding the belt. It can differ depending on your type of washer – front load versus top load – and it can differ depending on the manufacturer of the washer. In many cases, you will be able to access the belt from a panel on the back of the washer for a front load. However, you may also need to remove the entire back panel. With a top load washer, it’s normally accessible underneath the product. You will want to consult your owner’s manual to discover how exactly to access the belt on your specific washer.

Once you have access, the belt can be pulled off the pulley. You can then do a visual inspection of the belt. If it is warped, has cracks, or has actually broken, then it will need to be replaced. The new belt can be slipped onto the pulleys. Make sure to do a few test turns of the pulleys to make sure it is secure. The belt should not slip off and the pulleys will be able to turn smoothly. Once the washer is reassembled, the repair is complete.