How to replace a dryer drum support roller

This DIY dryer repair guide explains how to install a drum support roller. The drum support roller holds the dryer drum in place as it turns. A damaged or worn support roller bearing typically makes a scraping or squealing noise, and the drum may make quick thumping sounds if the support roller has a flat spot. Replace a worn or damaged drum support roller using the manufacturer-approved dryer part.

The video below shows a gas dryer, but the basic repair is the same. This repair procedure works for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Crosley and Estate dryers with a lint screen housing located in the top dryer panel.

Instructions

1. Shut off the power

Unplug the dryer. If you have a gas dryer, shut off the gas.

Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

2. Raise the top panel

Pull the lint screen out of the housing in the top panel of the dryer.

Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the 2 screws that secure the lint screen housing to the top panel.

To release the clips that lock the top of the dryer in place, push a putty knife under the lid near the left and right edges of the front of the dryer.

Lift the top and prop it securely against the wall behind the dryer.

3. Remove the front panel

Use a slot screwdriver to release the locking tab on the wire harness plug for the door switch. Disconnect the wire harness. Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the front panel mounting screws from the inside of the dryer.

Pull the front panel forward slightly, and then lift and unhook it from the 2 bottom hangers.

Pull the front panel off of the dryer and set it aside.

4. Remove the drum

Note the configuration of the belt on the idler pulley and the motor pulley before removing it—take a digital picture of it so you know how to reinstall it.

Push the idler pulley to the right to release tension on the drive belt.

Pull the drive belt off of the idler pulley and the motor pulley.

Pull the drum out of the dryer and set it aside.

Tip: Use the drive belt that you just released from the pulleys to lift the drum up and out of the dryer.

5. Remove the drum support roller

Use a slot screwdriver to pry the triangular washer off the front of the drum support roller.

Pull the drum support roller off of the front of the shaft.

Tip: While the dryer is open, vacuum the dust and lint from inside the dryer.

6. Install the new drum support roller

Push the new drum support roller onto the shaft and secure it with the triangular washer.

7. Reinstall the drum

Place the rear of the drum on top of the support roller that's on the rear panel inside the dryer.

Lift the front of the drum to access the drive motor and idler pulley.

Referring to the digital picture of the configuration, thread the drive belt through the idler pulley.

Push the idler pulley to the right and loop the drive belt over the motor pulley.

7. Reinstall the front panel

Position the front panel on the hangers at the bottom of the dryer.

Line up the mounting holes and reinstall the screws in the top of the front panel to secure it to the dryer.

Plug the wire harness back into the plug on the door switch.

Make sure the locking tab engages properly.

9. Reassemble the top panel

Lower the top panel and snap it into place.

Reinstall the screws in the lint duct housing and reinstall the lint screen.

10. Restore power to the dryer

Plug the dryer into the wall outlet. If it's a gas dryer, turn on the gas supply to the dryer.