MGDX655DW2 Dryer Belt – What Part Fixes a Drum That Won't Turn?
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Understanding the Problem
What the dryer belt does and why it fails: The drive (drum) belt wraps around the dryer drum and the motor/idler assembly. When the motor turns, the belt turns the drum. Over time the belt can snap, stretch, glaze, or slip from the idler pulley causing the drum to stop turning or to spin intermittently. Below are clear diagnostic and repair steps you can follow. 1) Confirm the symptom and initial checks - Symptom check: Start the dryer with an empty load and open the door switch (or press pause) to observe if the drum is turning when the motor runs. If you hear the motor but the drum does not turn, the belt is a top suspect. - Manual drum spin: With the dryer off and unplugged, try to rotate the drum by hand. A broken belt usually allows the drum to spin freely (no resistance). An intact belt will give some resistance. - Visual check: Remove the lint trap and shine a flashlight around the drum seam to look for a torn or hanging belt. 2) Safety first - Electric dryer: Unplug the dryer from the outlet. - Gas dryer (MGDX655DW2 is a gas-capable model): In addition to unplugging, turn the gas supply valve off at the supply line if you will be working around any gas fittings. Replacing the belt typically does not require disconnecting gas lines, but take the extra precaution of turning the gas off and keeping the area ventilated. 3) Tools and parts needed - Basic tools: putty knife or a flat screwdriver (to release top clips), nut driver or socket set (typically 1/4" or 5/16"), needle-nose pliers, work gloves, flashlight. - Replacement part: dryer drive belt sized and matched to MGDX655DW2 (see part section below). 4) Accessing the belt (typical Maytag/Whirlpool-style dryer) - Unplug the dryer and turn off gas if applicable. - Pull the dryer away from the wall so you can work on the back and front. - Remove the top panel: insert a putty knife under the top front corners to release clips, then lift the top. - Remove the front panel (or access the drum): disconnect the door switch wire harness if necessary and remove the screws holding the front panel. Carefully lift the front off and set it aside. - Note: Some models allow belt replacement from the front without removing the drum completely; follow the method that gives clear access to the drum, idler and motor. 5) Remove the old belt and inspect components - If the belt is broken, remove all remnants from around the drum and motor shaft. - Inspect the idler pulley and motor shaft for seized bearings, noise, glazing, or wear — a failed idler or seized motor can cause belt failure and should be replaced if damaged. - Check drum rollers or glides for wear — excessive drag can shorten belt life. 6) Installing the new belt - Route the new belt around the drum with the ribbed side contacting the drum (check belt orientation printed on the belt). Most Whirlpool/Maytag belts route around the front of the drum and then under to the motor pulley. - Loop the belt around the motor pulley and over/around the idler pulley to create the correct tension. Use one hand to hold the belt in place and the other to rotate the idler into position so the belt is snug. - Ensure the belt sits in the drum tracking grooves (if present) and is not twisted. 7) Reassemble and test - Reinstall the front panel and top, reconnect the door switch wiring if disconnected, and secure all screws/clips. - Reconnect power (and gas supply if turned off). Run a quick no-load cycle to verify the drum turns smoothly, there are no odd noises, and there is correct tension (no slipping). 8) Follow-up inspection - If the belt fails again quickly, inspect and likely replace the idler pulley, motor, drum rollers, or support glides — one of these causing extra drag will shorten belt life. Safety note: Always unplug electrical power before working inside the dryer. For gas models, close the gas valve when working near gas components and do not attempt to disconnect or alter gas lines unless you are qualified. If you smell gas after reassembly, shut off the gas supply immediately and ventilate the area; do not run the dryer and call a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Drum does not turn while the motor runs, loud thumping or slipping noises, burning rubber smell, or the dryer tumbles intermittently.
Common Causes
- Drive belt snapped or stretched
- Idler pulley or motor shaft bearing seized or worn, causing belt failure
- Worn drum rollers or glides creating excessive drag on the belt
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
With the dryer unplugged, try to turn the drum by hand. If it spins freely without resistance or you see a gap where a belt should be, the drive belt is almost certainly broken. Also inspect the idler pulley — if it spins roughly or is noisy, replace it when you change the belt.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace a dryer belt on an MGDX655DW2?
For someone comfortable with basic appliance work the replacement typically takes 30–60 minutes. Expect 60–90 minutes the first time if you’re being cautious. Have all parts and tools ready and follow safety steps.
Can I run my dryer if the belt is broken or slipping?
No. Running the dryer with a broken or slipping belt can damage the motor or idler assembly and produces inefficient drying. Replace the belt and inspect idler, rollers, and motor before using the dryer again.
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