Dryer Belt Sizing: General Electric's Guide

what size belt for dryer general electric

General Electric manufactures a range of dryer belts that are compatible with various makes and models, including Crosley, Gibson, and White Westinghouse. The replacement dryer belt is considered a suitable option for GE dryers, with customers reporting easy installation and restored appliances. However, some users have experienced issues with the belt not fitting properly or breaking down quickly. The quality and compatibility of a dryer belt may vary depending on the specific dryer model. It is important to refer to the model number and user manual to ensure the correct belt size and type for your dryer.

Characteristics Values
Manufacturer Part Number WE03X29897, WE12X10014, WE12X90, WE12M29, 4400EL2001F
Length 87 inches, 89.5 inches, 45 inches
Width 1/4 inch, 1/8 inch
Colour Black
Grooves 3
Ribs 4
Compatibility Crosley, General Electric, GE, Gibson, White Westinghouse, Frigidaire, Hotpoint, Kelvinator, RCA, Tappan, some Kenmore

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General Electric dryer belt replacement parts

If the drum in your General Electric dryer is not turning properly, or at all, the belt may be broken and need replacing. This belt wraps around the dryer drum, around a tension pulley, and then around the drive motor pulley. Belts tend to stretch and become brittle over time, which can lead to them breaking.

Replacement dryer belts for General Electric dryers are available from a variety of retailers, including Walmart and Home Depot. When searching for a replacement belt, you will need to know the make and model of your dryer, as belts are not one-size-fits-all. For example, the GE Dryer Drum Belt WE12X90 is compatible with various makes and models, including Crosley, General Electric, GE, Gibson, and White Westinghouse. This belt has a length of 87 inches, a width of 1/4”, and features 3 grooves and 4 ribs. Another replacement belt is the GE Dryer Belt ER137292700, which is available at Home Depot.

Before purchasing a replacement belt, you should consult your dryer's user manual to ensure that you buy the correct part. When replacing the belt, you will need to remove the power from your appliance, take off the main panel, and access the motor drive to slip the new belt into place. It is recommended that you wear work gloves when handling the internal parts of your dryer to protect your hands from sharp edges.

In addition to replacement belts, you may also need to purchase other replacement parts for your dryer, such as the heater assembly, drum bearing, or thermistor.

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How to identify the correct belt size for your dryer

If your dryer is not working properly, the belt may be broken. Dryer belts can stretch, become brittle, or slip, and will need to be replaced. To identify the correct belt size for your dryer, follow these steps:

First, turn off the power to your appliance and remove the main panel to access the motor drive. You may need to remove the top cover, front assembly, and front drum support to gain access to the back of the dryer.

Next, locate the belt. The belt wraps around the length of the dryer drum, secured by a tension pulley, and then loops around the motor pulley. To measure the belt size, you can use a piece of string or twine. Run the dryer belt until you see the initial knot, then cut the string so you have a complete loop. Measure the length of the string—this will be the length of your new dryer belt.

Alternatively, you can contact the manufacturer of your dryer and ask them for the belt length. Make sure to specify that you need the length of the belt itself, not the length of the dryer. If you have made any modifications to your dryer, be sure to inform the manufacturer.

Finally, when purchasing a replacement belt, compare the length of your old belt to the length of the new belt. Keep in mind that belts can stretch and contort over time, so don't worry about small inaccuracies. As long as the new belt is not drastically different in length, it should fit your dryer.

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Steps to replace a broken dryer belt

If your dryer drum isn't spinning when you turn it on, or your dryer makes a loud noise while it's running, you may need to replace the dryer belt. Here are the steps to replace a broken dryer belt in a General Electric dryer:

First, turn off the power to your dryer by unplugging it from the wall outlet. Remove the power cord from the wall outlet if it is connected directly. This is an important safety precaution to prevent any accidents or injuries.

Next, you will need to disassemble the dryer to access the drum and the belt. The process may vary slightly depending on your dryer model, but here are some general steps: locate and remove the screws that hold the top and front panels in place, and then remove these panels. You may need to use a screwdriver to remove the screws. For example, you can start by removing the two screws inside the lint filter (if your lint filter is on top of the machine) to unlock the top panel. Then, look for screws, clips, or buttons around the seams where the panels meet and remove them. Once the screws are removed, you can lift or tilt the panels to unlatch them from the bottom of the dryer.

After removing the panels, you should be able to locate the dryer belt. It is typically wrapped around the dryer drum and secured by a tension pulley, looping around the motor pulley. Inspect the belt for any damage and ensure it is positioned correctly. If the belt is damaged or broken, you will need to remove it by cutting it carefully and then removing it from the drum and pulleys.

Now, you can install the new dryer belt. Purchase the correct replacement part for your dryer model. Take note of the model number on the old belt or the serial number on the dryer, and order an identical belt online. When you receive the new belt, hang it around the drum, ensuring that there is plenty of slack. The groove side of the belt should be against the drum. Then, thread the belt through the idler pulley and the motor pulley in a zig-zag formation. Ensure that the textured side of the belt faces inward against the drum.

Finally, reassemble the dryer by reinstalling the panels and components. Rotate the drum by hand to help align the new belt. Reinstall the front bulkhead, ensuring the drum is properly positioned. Reconnect any sensor wires, braces, or supports, and then reinstall the front and top panels. Make sure to reconnect any necessary wires, such as the door switch wire connector. With the reassembly complete, plug the power cord back into the wall outlet, and your dryer should be ready to use again.

By following these steps, you can replace a broken dryer belt in your General Electric dryer, keeping your appliance running efficiently.

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Common issues with General Electric dryer belts, including breakage, stretching, and brittleness

General Electric dryer belts are available in various sizes, such as the WE12X10014, which is 87 inches long and 1/4 inch wide, and the WE03X29897, which is 89.5 inches long. The size of the belt you need will depend on your specific General Electric dryer model.

Now, let's discuss common issues with General Electric dryer belts, including breakage, stretching, and brittleness:

Breakage

One of the most common issues with dryer belts is breakage. If the drum is not turning properly or at all, it is likely due to a broken belt. This can be caused by several factors, including insufficient tension, misalignment of the drum, worn-out or damaged pulleys, and issues with drum support rollers. Regular maintenance and prompt addressing of these issues can prevent belt breakage. Additionally, a broken belt switch or a seized-up motor can cause the belt to break, so it is important to check these components as well.

Stretching

Over time, dryer belts can stretch, leading to brittleness and eventual breakage. This is a common issue that can be addressed by replacing the belt with a new one. When replacing the belt, it is important to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure the correct part is used and installed correctly.

Brittleness

Dryer belts can become brittle over time due to heat exposure and other factors. This can cause the belt to crack or break, requiring replacement. To prevent brittleness, it is important to maintain the dryer by regularly cleaning the lint filter and ensuring proper ventilation.

Other Common Issues

In addition to the issues mentioned above, there are other common problems associated with General Electric dryer belts. These include loud noises coming from the dryer, which could be due to a worn rear drum bearing, and clothes getting stuck in the drum, which may be caused by insufficient tension in the belt or other mechanical issues.

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Dryer belt maintenance and care

Dryer belts are critical components that connect the motor to the drum, enabling the drum to rotate when the dryer is in operation. If the belt breaks or becomes worn, the drum won't turn, and the dryer won't dry your clothes properly.

Maintenance and Care

Dryer belts typically last several years, but it's recommended to inspect them every three to five years for signs of wear, such as fraying, cracking, or stretching. If you notice any of these issues, it's best to replace the belt to prevent a complete breakdown. Depending on the brand and model of your dryer, a new belt will cost between $10 and $40.

To extend the life of your dryer belt, avoid overloading the dryer, as this puts extra strain on the belt. Also, ensure that the belt is properly aligned and that the drum rollers and motor pulley are in good condition, as uneven tension can cause the belt to break prematurely.

If your dryer drum isn't spinning when you turn it on, or if the machine makes a loud noise during operation, it may be time to replace the belt. This is a straightforward DIY task if you have basic tools, some mechanical know-how, and follow safety precautions. You'll need to disconnect the power, remove the top and front panels, and access the belt to replace it. However, if you're uncomfortable with disassembling appliances, it's best to seek professional help.

By following these maintenance and care tips, you can help ensure that your dryer belt lasts longer and continues to function effectively, keeping your dryer running smoothly and efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

The standard size for a General Electric dryer belt is 87 inches in length, 1/4 inches in width, and 0.08 inches thick.

You can buy a General Electric dryer belt at Walmart, Lowes, or GE Appliances.

The manufacturer part number for the General Electric dryer belt is WE12X90.

Some signs that you need to replace your General Electric dryer belt include if the drum is not turning properly or at all, or if you hear loud noises coming from the dryer.

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