WTW5000DW1 Drive Belt – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: The drive belt on a Whirlpool WTW5000DW1 transfers power from the motor to the transmission/drum. If the belt is worn, stretched, glazed, or broken the washer may not agitate, spin, or may make squealing noises. Replacing the belt is a common repair that most handy homeowners can do with basic tools. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1. Confirm the symptom: If the tub won't spin or agitate but the motor sounds like it's running (humming or spinning freely), or you hear a loud screeching/squealing during spin, suspect the drive belt. Also inspect if the drum turns by hand when the washer is off; a broken belt will let the drum turn freely with little resistance. 2. Unplug and secure the washer: Disconnect power at the outlet. Turn off water supply and move the washer away from the wall so you can access the rear panel. Never work on the washer while it has power applied. 3. Access the belt: On most WTW5000DW1 units the belt is accessed from the rear lower panel. Remove the screws holding the back access panel or lower rear panel (and the base panel if present). Some models require removing the cabinet top or tilting the washer forward to access the motor area—check how your model's panels attach and keep screws labeled. 4. Inspect the belt and pulleys: Visually inspect the belt for cracks, frayed edges, missing ribs, glazing (shiny hard surface), or an obvious break. Check the motor and transmission pulleys for wear, scoring, or heavy rust. Spin the motor pulley by hand; it should turn smoothly. Check the idler/tensioner (if present) for seized bearing or wear. 5. Remove the old belt: If the belt is still on, rotate the drum to relieve tension and slip the belt off the motor pulley first, then off the transmission/drum pulley. If the belt is broken, simply pull the pieces away. 6. Compare belts: Match the new belt to the old one (length, rib count/shape). If no old belt is available, verify the correct part number for WTW5000DW1 (see parts section) before installing. 7. Install the new belt: Place the belt around the transmission/drum pulley first, then around the motor pulley. Ensure the ribs (if any) seat properly in pulley grooves. If there's an idler/tensioner, route the belt over/under it per the original configuration to create proper tension. Manually rotate the drum a couple of turns to seat the belt and check tracking. 8. Reassemble panels and test: Reinstall the access panel(s) and secure all screws. Push the washer back into place, reconnect power and water, and run a short wash and spin cycle to confirm normal agitation and spinning. Listen for any squeal or slipping. 9. If symptoms persist: If the new belt slips or fails quickly, check the motor shaft, motor mounting bolts, the idler/tensioner bearing, and the transmission/clutch for seized or excessively worn components. These may need replacement. Safety note: Always unplug the washer before any inspection or repair. Use gloves to protect hands from sharp sheet metal edges. If you are uncomfortable with lifting or tilting the washer, get assistance. If the motor or transmission needs replacement, consider a qualified technician unless you have experience with heavy appliance repairs.
Common Symptoms
Washer won't spin or agitate; loud squealing or slipping noise during spin; tub turns freely by hand; visible broken, glazed, or worn belt.
Common Causes
- Worn, stretched, or broken drive belt
- Glazed belt slipping on pulleys (overheating or age)
- Faulty/ seized idler or tensioner pulley or worn motor/transmission pulley
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
Quick confirmation: remove the rear access panel, manually spin the tub. If the motor runs but the tub doesn’t move, or the belt shows glazing/cracks, the belt is almost certainly the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to replace the drive belt?
Part cost: the drive belt itself is typically inexpensive (often $10–$40 depending on source and OEM vs aftermarket). If you hire a technician, labor can add roughly $100–$200 depending on local rates. If other components like the idler or motor are bad, parts and labor will increase the cost.
Can I replace the drive belt myself or do I need a technician?
Most handy homeowners can replace the belt themselves if they’re comfortable unplugging the washer, removing panels, and working in a small space. The job generally requires basic tools (screwdrivers, socket set) and 30–60 minutes. If the motor, transmission, or an internal pulley needs replacement, or if you’re not comfortable lifting/tilting the washer or working around electrical components, call a qualified appliance technician.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.