Tech Tips for Repairing Appliances

Troubleshooting and Repair Tips - Symptom - Whirlpool Dryer Motor Replacement

This topic teaches you how to replace a motor in a common classic Whirlpool dryer. The motor sometimes needs to be replaced as a result of the bearing seizing or windings that have shorted out. The symptom is usually that the dryer won't start, but buzzes loudly when pressing the start buttong. Sometimes with a bad motor, the symptom will be that the dryer runs for a few minutes and stops, with a burning smell.

Whirlpool Electric Dryer Motor Replacement. Basic (not Cabrio) model with lint screen on top right. (motor part number 279827)

-Unplug dryer.
-Pull out the lint filter on the top right of the dryer.
-Remove the two screw that hold the top of the dryer to the lint filter housing.
-Pull the top of the dryer forward to release from the two front retaining clips.
-Lift the top of the dryer from the front.
-Disconnect the door switch connector on the right.
-Locate the two screws - one on each side inside the dryer that hold the front on.
-Remove the two screws.
-Pull the front of the dryer forward and lift up.
-Reach under the drum to the right and put tension on the idler assembly to release the belt.
-Grab the belt at the top of the drum and lift the drum out.
-Note the motor on the right hand side. It likely does not spin very freely as a result of its failure.
-Remove the wiring harness from the motor.
-Note the position of the back retainer clip and then remove as shown in the picure.
-Use a large adjustable wrench as shown to secure the blower at the back side of the motor.
-Use a pipe wrench on the front pulley and turn sharply clockwise to release the blower from the motor.
-Once the blower is initially free, continue turning the motor shaft clockwise to fully unscrew the blower from the motor.
-Note the position of the front motor retaining clip and remove using a screwdriver as shown in the picture.
-Lift out the motor and put the new motor in place.
-Important - Orient the new motor just like the old one, with the wiring harness at about 8 o'clock.
-When the motor is oriented properly, it will fit snugly into the u-shaped supports.
-Turn the motor counter-clockwise to screw the blower on.
-Reconnect the wiring harness to the motor.
-Place the retiaining clips back on using a screwdriver for leverage.
-Put the drum and belt back in and install the idler assembly so that it is oriented as shown.
-Reassemble the dryer in reverse order as described and test.