Kenmore Dryer 417.97042700 Belt Replacement – How to Fix a Broken Drum Belt
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Understanding the Problem
The dryer belt is the looped rubber belt that wraps around the drum and connects to the motor pulley and idler pulley. Its job is to turn the drum so clothes tumble. Over time the belt can crack, fray, or snap from wear, misalignment, or from seized idler/roller bearings. When the belt fails the motor may run (you may hear the motor hum or run) but the drum won't turn, or the drum will turn intermittently or produce squealing or thumping noises. On Kenmore models in the 417.970xxx family the drive system is conventional: motor, motor pulley, idler/tensioner, drum rollers, and the belt. A broken, stretched, or glazed belt is the most common cause of a non-turning drum. However, worn drum rollers or a seized idler pulley can overload and quickly ruin a new belt if those parts are not inspected and replaced as needed. Always disconnect power (and gas if applicable) before inspecting or replacing parts, and confirm the exact belt and part numbers for your model before ordering.
Common Symptoms
Drum will not turn while motor runs or hums; loud squealing, thumping, or grinding noises during start-up; burning rubber smell; intermittent tumbling or clothes not drying due to lack of drum rotation.
Common Causes
- Worn, stretched, glazed, or snapped drum (drive) belt
- Seized or worn idler pulley or motor pulley causing excessive wear on the belt
- Worn or seized drum rollers or shaft causing added resistance and premature belt failure
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm the belt is the problem: disconnect power, open the dryer front (or remove the top and front depending on your model), then try to turn the drum by hand. If the drum spins freely when the belt is off or you see a visibly broken/slack belt, the belt is the issue. If the drum is hard to turn, check drum rollers and the idler pulley too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know for sure the belt is broken and not the motor?
If the motor runs (you hear it) but the drum does not turn, the belt is the likely culprit. After disconnecting power, manually rotate the drum—if it spins freely and you see a loose or broken belt, that's confirmation. If the drum is hard to turn, inspect the drum rollers, idler pulley, and shaft for wear or seizure before replacing the motor.
Can I replace the dryer belt myself and how much will it cost?
Yes — replacing the belt is a common DIY repair for a homeowner with basic tools. Typical parts-only cost is $15–$60 depending on brand and whether you replace rollers/idler too. Labor at a repair shop or technician usually adds $80–$200. Follow a model-specific service manual or step-by-step guide, disconnect power (and gas if it's a gas dryer), note belt routing, and replace any worn rollers or idler at the same time to avoid repeating the repair.
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