Kenmore Dryer 417.97042700 Belt Replacement – How to Diagnose & Replace the Drive Belt
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Understanding the Problem
If your Kenmore dryer model 417.97042700 has a drum that won’t spin, spins intermittently, makes thumping/squealing noises, or you smell burning rubber, the most common cause is a worn, stretched, or broken drive belt. The belt wraps around the dryer drum and connects to the motor pulley and idler/tensioner; when it fails the motor runs but the drum does not turn properly or at all. Replacing the belt is a common DIY repair for this model. In many cases the belt is simply frayed or broken; other times the idler pulley, drum rollers, or drum glides are worn and caused extra stress that broke the belt. When you replace the belt, inspect and consider replacing the idler pulley and at least the drum support components if they show wear to avoid repeating the failure.
Common Symptoms
Drum won't turn or turns intermittently; loud thumping, squealing, or rubbing noises during spin; burning rubber smell; drum may turn when spun by hand but stops when motor runs.
Common Causes
- Worn, stretched, frayed or broken drive belt
- Worn or seized idler pulley/tensioner causing extra belt wear
- Worn drum rollers, drum glides, or rear drum bearing increasing belt load and causing belt failure
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
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Helpful Repair Tip
To confirm the belt is the problem, try to rotate the drum by hand with the dryer off: if the drum spins freely but the motor runs and the drum doesn’t, the belt is likely broken or slipped. If you can see the belt through an access panel, look for fraying, glazing, or a complete break.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove the old belt and install the new one?
Disconnect power first. Access varies by model but generally remove the dryer top or front panel to expose the drum. Reach in and wrap the new belt around the drum ribs (ribbed side against drum). Loop the belt around the motor pulley and under the idler pulley so the idler applies tension. Rotate the drum by hand to ensure the belt tracks properly, then reassemble panels and test. If unsure, consult the dryer’s wiring/parts diagram or follow a step-by-step guide for Kenmore 417-series dryers.
Should I replace any other parts when replacing the belt?
Yes — inspect idler pulley, drum rollers, drum glides, and the rear drum bearing. If any of these components are noisy, hard to turn, loose, or show visible wear, replace them while you have the dryer apart. Replacing the idler and at least one roller at the same time is good preventive maintenance and helps prevent a second failure shortly after a belt replacement.
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