Dryer Keeps Squealing Despite Repair Attempt

QUESTION: My Whirlpool gas dryer squeals and squeaks when it first starts up and runs for five or 10 minutes. Then the racket goes away and the machine runs like new. I lubricated the drum drive belt and the idler wheel, drum support roller shafts, and I cleaned the rear groove in the drum, all without improvement. Please help.

ANSWER: You are on the right track. Set the temperature control to air fluff, then unplug the dryer from its power source.

Next, remove the drive belt from the motor by pulling the idler pulley back toward the motor and slipping the belt off the motor drive pulley. Slowly release the tension on the idler pulley assembly. Remove it from the dryer.

Plug the machine back into its power source and test run the dryer. If you get the squealing noise, it’s probably coming from the motor bearings, which are factory lubricated and cannot be oiled. If there is no squeal with the belt off, then it’s either the idler pulley assembly or the two support rollers. If your dryer is old, we suggest you replace all three parts. You should also give the appliance a good vacuuming inside and check the condition of the belt.