How to replace a sewing machine drive belt
This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the drive belt in a sewing machine. The drive belt connects the drive motor to the hand wheel and upper shaft, turning the hand wheel and upper shaft as the motor runs. A broken or worn belt can't turn the hand wheel and upper shaft. Replace a broken or worn sewing machine drive belt using the manufacturer-approved sewing machine part.
Use this basic procedure to replace the drive belt in Kenmore and Brother sewing machines.
This video explains how to replace the drive belt on a sewing machine.
Instructions
- 01.
Shut off the electricity
Unplug the sewing machine's power cord from the wall outlet.
- 02.
Remove the drive belt cover
Remove the screws securing the belt cover to the sewing machine and pull the belt cover off.
PHOTO: Remove the front screw from the belt cover.
PHOTO: Remove the bottom screw from the belt cover.
- 03.
Remove the drive belt
Loosen the 2 motor mounting screws and pivot the motor upward to release the belt tension.
Slide the drive belt off the hand wheel and remove the belt.
PHOTO: Loosen the motor mounting screws.
PHOTO: Pivot the motor upwards.
PHOTO: Slide the belt off the hand wheel and remove.
- 04.
Install the new drive belt
Position the new drive belt under the motor pulley and then roll the belt onto the hand wheel.
Pivot the drive motor to apply slight tension to the belt and tighten the motor mounting screws firmly.
PHOTO: Position the new drive belt under the motor pulley.
PHOTO: Tighten the motor mounting screws.
- 05.
Reinstall the belt cover
Position the belt cover on the sewing machine and reinstall the belt cover mounting screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the drive belt cover.
- 06.
Restore power
Plug the sewing machine into the electrical outlet.
Symptoms common to all sewing machines
Repair guides common to all sewing machines
If the sewing machine is completely dead, replace the On/Off switch using these 6 steps.
You can replace a broken sewing machine drive belt in about 15 minutes.
If the drive motor on your sewing machine runs roughly or doesn't run at all, you can replace it in about 30 minutes using these simple steps.
Articles and videos common to all sewing machines
Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.
Learn how to use a multimeter to check for wiring problems in an appliance that's not working