Admiral Dryer Squeaking Like a Bird: Roller Lubrication... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Dryers use a motor to turn a drum, which is supported by rollers. An idler pulley maintains tension on the drive belt. The blower wheel circulates air for drying. Squeaking noises often indicate friction due to lack of lubrication or worn components.

Symptoms:

The Admiral dryer is making a high-pitched squeaking noise, described as similar to a bird chirping, during operation.

Possible Causes:

Worn or unlubricated drum support rollers
Worn or damaged idler pulley bearing
Worn or damaged blower wheel
Debris trapped between drum and rear panel
Motor bearings failing

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC outlet.
2

Remove the lint filter and the screws holding the top panel to the cabinet.
3

Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the front panel screws.
4

Disconnect the door switch wiring harness.
5

Support the drum and remove the belt from the motor pulley and idler pulley.
6

Inspect the drum support rollers, idler pulley, and blower wheel for wear or damage. Spin each component by hand to listen for noise.
7

Lubricate drum support roller shafts with high-temperature grease. Replace rollers if excessively worn. Inspect the idler pulley and replace if worn or noisy. The correct belt tension after reassembly should allow approximately 1/2-inch deflection when pressed midway between pulleys.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power before servicing. Lock Out / Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed. Capacitors can hold a charge, so discharge them before handling electrical components. Be aware of sharp edges inside the dryer. Some components operate at 120V AC.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint filter after each use. Every 6 months, inspect and lubricate the drum support rollers. Check the belt for wear and replace as needed. A visual inspection of the interior components is beneficial annually to reduce future failures.

Expert Tip:

A small amount of silicone spray can be applied to the drum glides to reduce friction and noise, but avoid over-spraying. To enter service mode on some Admiral models, press and hold the Start/Pause button and then press the Temperature Up and Down buttons simultaneously. This may vary based on the specific model number.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I know which roller is causing the noise?

Carefully spin each roller by hand after removing the belt. The noisy roller will usually be evident. Also, look for flat spots or excessive wear.

•What kind of grease should I use to lubricate the rollers?

Use a high-temperature, lithium-based grease specifically designed for appliance applications. This type of grease can withstand the heat generated by the dryer.

•Can I use WD-40 to lubricate the rollers?

No, WD-40 is not a suitable lubricant for dryer rollers. It's a penetrating oil and will evaporate quickly, leaving the rollers dry and prone to squeaking again. Use high-temperature grease.

Admiral Dryer Squeaking Like a Bird: Roller Lubrication Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I know which roller is causing the noise?

•What kind of grease should I use to lubricate the rollers?

•Can I use WD-40 to lubricate the rollers?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: