Admiral Dryer Drum Belt Screeching or Chirping Sound:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's MCU (Main Control Unit) monitors the motor speed via the motor windings and various thermistors to prevent overheating. The drive motor uses a pulley connected via the drum belt to rotate the drum. When the drum belt begins to fail it will generate a friction screeching or chirping sound.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a screeching or chirping sound emanating from the dryer while the drum is rotating. The noise may be intermittent or constant, and may increase with load size.

Possible Causes:

Worn or glazed drum belt
Worn drum support rollers
Idler pulley bearing failure
Motor pulley misalignment
Debris lodged between the drum and cabinet

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC outlet and disconnect the vent duct.
2

Remove the lint filter and any screws securing the top panel. Use a putty knife to release the clips, then lift and support the top.
3

Disconnect the door switch wires and remove the front panel by unscrewing the mounting screws using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
4

Locate the drum belt, idler pulley, and drum support rollers. Inspect the belt for wear, glazing, or cracks.
5

Manually rotate the drum to check for smooth roller operation. Replace any worn or noisy rollers, using a 5/16-inch socket.
6

Check the idler pulley for free movement and replace if the bearing is failing.
7

Install a new drum belt, ensuring it is properly positioned around the drum and motor pulley. Reassemble the dryer.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before attempting any repairs (LOTO - Lock Out Tag Out). Capacitors in the motor circuit can hold a dangerous charge even after the dryer is unplugged. Verify zero voltage with a multimeter before touching any internal components.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter after each use. Inspect the drum belt, rollers, and idler pulley annually for wear and replace as needed. Ensure proper dryer venting to prevent excessive heat buildup, which can damage components.

Expert Tip:

After replacing the belt, run the dryer on a no-heat cycle for 15 minutes. This will allow the belt to seat properly and reduce the risk of slippage. To enter service mode on some Admiral models, press and hold the Start/Pause and Cancel buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I tell if the drum rollers are bad?

Spin each roller individually. If they are noisy, wobbly, or don't spin freely, they need to be replaced. Look for flat spots or cracks in the roller material as well.

•What is the correct way to route the drum belt around the drum and pulleys?

The belt should wrap around the drum, with the grooved side facing inward. It then routes around the motor pulley and the idler pulley, ensuring the idler pulley maintains tension on the belt.

•How do I check the motor pulley alignment?

Visually inspect the motor pulley alignment with the drum pulley. They should be parallel to each other. A misaligned pulley can cause the belt to wear prematurely and make noise.

Admiral Dryer Drum Belt Screeching or Chirping Sound: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I tell if the drum rollers are bad?

•What is the correct way to route the drum belt around the drum and pulleys?

•How do I check the motor pulley alignment?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: