GE DWSR463EG2WW Dryer Drum Bearing & Felt Slide Kit – What It Fixes and How to Replace It
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Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The drum felt slides (glides) and rear bearing/bushing on a GE dryer support the drum and provide a smooth, low-friction surface where the drum rides. Over time the felt pads wear out and the bearing can wear or develop flat spots, causing rubbing, squealing, scraping, or drum wobble. Replacing the felt/glide kit and rear drum bearing restores quiet operation and prevents metal-to-metal wear. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1. Confirm symptoms: Listen for high-pitched squeal, scraping, or grinding during rotation; look for fabric lint or black streaks on clothes; check for drum wobble or intermittent rubbing. Also try turning the drum by hand when the dryer is off—feel for rough spots. 2. Unplug the dryer and shut off gas (for gas models). Move dryer away from the wall to access the back and front. 3. Remove the top panel: On most GE models, remove two screws at the back of the top, push the top back, then lift off. (Some models use release tabs under the front lip.) 4. Remove the front panel: Disconnect the door switch harness, remove front screws and lift the front panel away so you can access the drum. 5. Remove the drum: Lift the drum out carefully. Inspect the rear bearing/bushing (mounted in the bulkhead) and the front and rear felt seals (rings or pads where the drum meets the bulkhead and front support). 6. Inspect parts: Look for torn or compressed felt, scored metal surfaces, or a loose/wobbly bearing. Spin the bearing by hand—if it's rough, noisy, or has play, it should be replaced. Check drum inside circumference where it contacts glides for wear or flat spots. 7. Source the correct kit: Use the dryer model (DWSR463EG2WW) to order the OEM drum felt/slide and rear bearing kit from GE Parts or a reputable parts supplier. Confirm compatibility before purchase. 8. Remove old felt/glides/bearing: Typically the felt slides glue or screw into the bulkhead and drum lip; the bearing may press into the bulkhead or simply be a bushing. Remove screws or pry out glides and pull the bearing out of the bulkhead. Clean the mounting surfaces and vacuum lint. 9. Install new bearing: Press the new bearing or bushing into the bulkhead evenly. Ensure it is fully seated and aligned with the drum shaft. Lubrication is usually not required unless the kit instructions specify a small amount of high-temperature bearing grease. 10. Install new felt slides/glides/seals: Attach the new felt ring to the drum lip and install front/rear felt pads or glides to the bulkhead per kit instructions. Use supplied screws or adhesive; make sure the glides are positioned where the drum rolls. If glides are screw-mounted, tighten snug but do not over-torque. 11. Reassemble: Reinstall the drum, reconnect the door switch harness, reattach the front panel, and secure the top. Rotate the drum by hand to verify smooth, quiet operation and proper clearance. Restore power (and gas if applicable) and run a short test cycle to confirm the problem is resolved. 12. Final check and test: Listen for noise, check for wobble, and inspect for any rubbing or contact points. If noise persists, re-check for flat spots on the drum or a defective idler pulley/motor pulley that can also cause noise. Safety note: Always unplug the dryer and, for gas dryers, shut off the gas supply before starting any repairs. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling sharp metal edges and lint. If you are unsure about working on gas hookups or wiring, hire a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Loud squealing or scraping during spin, rubbing or scraping noises that change with drum position, visible black streaks on laundry, excessive drum wobble or uneven rotation, and rough feel when rotating the drum by hand.
Common Causes
- Worn or compressed drum felt/glides causing metal-on-metal contact
- Worn or damaged rear drum bearing or bushing producing rough rotation
- Debris, lint build-up, or a flat spot on the drum contacting the bulkhead
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Helpful Repair Tip
Confirm the faulty part by turning the drum by hand with the front panel removed — rough spots, grinding or intermittent catching point to the exact location of worn felt or the rear bearing. Mark the spot on the drum and then inspect the corresponding glide or bearing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need the felt slides or the rear bearing?
If the noise is localized to a single drum position and you see worn felt at the front or rear, replace the felt/glides first. If the drum feels rough when you spin it by hand and there's play or grinding coming from the rear center of the drum, the rear bearing/bushing needs replacement. Often both are replaced together as a preventive measure.
Can I replace just the felt slides myself, and how long does it take?
Yes — replacing felt slides is a straightforward DIY job for a homeowner comfortable with basic disassembly. Expect 45–90 minutes depending on your skill and model. Make sure to unplug the dryer, remove the front/top to access the drum, and follow the kit instructions for correct placement of glides and seals.
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