Maytag Dryer Screeching Noise Under Heavy Load:... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Maytag dryers use a belt-driven system. The motor turns a pulley connected to a belt that spins the drum. Support rollers at the rear and sometimes front of the drum support its weight. The MCU (Main Control Unit) monitors motor current, but a simple noise issue won't usually trigger a fault code. The voltage path is 120V AC to the motor and heating element controlled by relays.

Symptoms:

The homeowner reports a loud screeching noise emanating from the Maytag dryer only when a heavy load of laundry is being dried. The noise is not present or is less noticeable with smaller loads.

Possible Causes:

Worn or glazed drum support rollers
Worn or loose drum belt
Worn or unlubricated idler pulley
Motor bearings failing under load
Debris lodged between drum and rear panel

Solution:

1

Unplug the dryer from the 120V AC outlet.
2

Disconnect the vent hose from the dryer.
3

Remove the lint filter and any associated screws.
4

Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the front panel screws (usually located inside the lint filter cavity).
5

Carefully disconnect any wiring harnesses connected to the front panel.
6

Inspect the drum belt for wear, glazing, or cracks. Replace if necessary.
7

Inspect the drum support rollers and idler pulley for wear or damage. Spin them by hand. Replace if they are noisy or difficult to turn.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power before performing any repairs. Capacitors can hold a charge even after the unit is unplugged. Use caution around electrical components. Follow Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the lint screen after each load. Periodically (every 6 months) inspect the drum belt, rollers, and idler pulley. Vacuum out any accumulated lint inside the dryer cabinet. Avoid overloading the dryer.

Expert Tip:

When replacing the drum belt, make sure the grooved side faces the drum. A common mistake is installing it backwards, leading to poor performance and premature wear. To access service mode on many Maytag dryers, press and hold the Start/Pause and Temperature buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds.

Follow-up Questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I properly tension the drum belt after replacing it?

The idler pulley has a spring that automatically tensions the belt. Ensure the belt is properly seated in the pulleys and the idler arm moves freely. The correct tension should allow for about 1/2 inch of deflection when pushing on the belt midway between the pulleys.

•What type of grease should I use to lubricate the drum support rollers?

Use a high-temperature, lithium-based grease specifically designed for appliance applications. Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants, as they can damage plastic components.

•The noise is still there even after replacing the belt and rollers. What else could it be?

If the noise persists, the motor bearings are the most likely culprit. Replacing the motor is usually the best solution, but consider the dryer's age and overall condition before investing in a new motor. Also, double-check for any foreign objects caught between the drum and the back panel.

Maytag Dryer Screeching Noise Under Heavy Load: Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I properly tension the drum belt after replacing it?

•What type of grease should I use to lubricate the drum support rollers?

•The noise is still there even after replacing the belt and rollers. What else could it be?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: