Replace a Washing Machine Belt
A washing machine belt, also called a drive belt, is an important part of any washing machine. It basically drives the motion of the unit where the clothes are washed and spun. If your washing machine is making a loud, shrill sound, then the belt is probably worn or displaced. If your machine fills with water but doesn't move, the belt has most likely been broken. No matter which issue you are having with your washing machine, these problems indicate that it is time to replace the drive belt. Learning how to replace a washing machine belt can be tricky, but will save you from a more costly repair bill if you are able to do it yourself.
Steps
- Unplug your washing machine from the electrical outlet or power source before attempting to replace the washing machine drive belt.
- Check to see if your washing machine has an access panel.
- If it does have one, it will be on one of the sides, most likely the back. It will need to be removed for washing machine belt replacement. If not, you will have to look through the bottom of your machine for the drive belt.
- Remove the access panel of your washing machine once you locate it to make sure your model has a drive belt.
- Cover the floor where your washing machine is located once you've determined that your model has a drive belt.
- This will protect the area from water that will leak from the washing machine.
- Gently turn the washing machine on its side once you determine that your model runs with a drive belt.
- Locate the washing machine belt, which will be black in color.
- Remove the clamps that connect rubber coupling, the belt and washing machine motor.
- Slide the old washing machine drive belt off the transmission and motor pulleys.
- Replace the new washing machine drive belt by slipping it over the transmission and motor pulleys from which you removed the old belt.
- Reconnect the rubber coupling and the clamps over the new washing machine belt.
- Turn your washing machine back to the upright position.
- Plug the machine back into the power outlet and give it a try to make sure it now runs properly.
Tips
- A simple tool that will help you learn how to replace a washing machine belt is the owner's manual for your particular model. It will provide specifics of the location and method for removing and replacing the drive belt.
- If you do not see a belt when you remove the access panel or search underneath your washing machine, then your model has what is called a direct drive. You will need a repairman to fix it.
- When learning how to replace a washing machine belt, keep in mind that each model is different. Because of this, replacing the belt may vary from machine to machine, though basic steps will help you complete this task.
- Be sure to have someone who can help you turn your washing machine on its side for washing machine belt replacement. The machine is heavy and the job will be awkward without help.
- If you have a Haier washer, you need to loosen the screws on the panel.
Warnings
- Never attempt to replace a washing machine belt while your washer is plugged into an electrical outlet. This can result in injury or a severe electric shock.
- Don't attempt to set your washing machine on its side by yourself for washing machine belt replacement. You could injure yourself or cause damage to the heavy machine.
- Do not attempt to replace a washing machine belt without having tools handy. Though some clamps are easily removed by hand, others will need a socket wrench or a screwdriver to be removed properly.
Things You'll Need
- New washing machine belt
- screwdriver (which you may or may not need)
- Socket wrench (which you may or may not need)
