Proper Operation
Learn how your appliance is supposed to operate so you can determine if it is malfunctioning.


This page contains affiliate links. For more information visit our
FTC disclosure page.

  • Visit our sponsor for parts:
The AppliancePartsPros team

Checking the Idler Pulley

Procedures for Gathering Confirming Data

  1. Unplug the dryer, disconnect the dryer vent and pull the dryer far enough away from the wall to get behind it.
  2. Use a 5/16 inch nut driver to remove about 10 sheet metal screws from the rear access panel. Remove the panel and slide it down the power cord to get it out of the way.
  3. The idler pulley is positioned alongside the motor pulley and keeps tension on the belt. If this pulley looses its lubricant, it will squeek. Plug the dryer in and run it to confirm that the squeeking is coming from the idler pulley. Add a couple of drops of light machine oil to the bearing with the dryer stopped to get rid of the squeeking. Replace the rear panel.