WTW5105HWO Belt Replacement – How to Diagnose and Replace the Drive Belt
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Understanding the Problem
What the drive belt does and why it fails: The drive belt transfers rotation from the motor to the washer transmission/drum so the tub can agitate and spin. Over time the belt can stretch, crack, glaze, or break — or an idler/motor pulley can fail — which causes the washer to stop spinning or to squeal loudly. Step-by-step diagnostic and replacement steps: 1) Safety first: Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply. Move the washer away from the wall so you can access the back. Wear gloves and eye protection. 2) Confirm belt problem: Put the washer in a spin cycle (unplugged) and try to rotate the tub by hand. If the drum is hard to turn or won’t turn while the motor runs (with power), or you hear a high-pitched squeal while it tries to spin, the belt is suspect. See the helpful tip below to confirm. 3) Tools and parts: You’ll typically need a 1/4" or 5/16" nut driver or Phillips screwdriver, socket set (7/16" or 1/2"), flashlight, and a replacement drive belt (common OEM part number WP285753 or equivalent — confirm compatibility). Optional: belt tensioner/idler if your model has one. 4) Access the belt: Depending on how your WTW5105HWO is configured you will either remove the rear access panel or remove the cabinet. Most models have a rear panel held by screws — remove those screws and drop the panel. If there is no access panel, remove screws at the back that hold the top and lift the cabinet off (use a putty knife to release console clips if required). 5) Inspect components: Visually inspect the belt for glazing, cracking, or breakage and check the motor pulley and idler for damage or seized bearings. Also check the tub and transmission pulleys for oil/grease contamination (oil on a belt causes slippage). 6) Remove the old belt: If belt is broken, simply slip it off the pulleys. If intact but worn, push the motor toward the frame (or loosen motor mount bolts) to relieve tension then slide the belt off the motor pulley and the drum/transmission pulley. 7) Install the new belt: Loop the belt around the transmission/drum pulley first, then around the motor pulley. If your model uses an idler or tensioner, route the belt over the idler per the original path. Pull the motor away from the frame or tighten motor mount so the belt has proper tension — there should be about 1/2" of deflection in the middle of the longest span with moderate thumb pressure. 8) Re-tension and check alignment: Make sure the belt sits centered on all pulleys and is not twisted. If you loosened motor bolts, tighten them securely. 9) Reassemble the cabinet or rear panel: Replace any screws and move the washer back into place. 10) Test run: Plug the washer back in, run a spin or drain/spin cycle empty, and observe. Listen for squeals and watch for proper spin speed. If it still won't spin but motor runs, re-check belt routing and tension and inspect motor coupling/motor for failure. Safety note: Always disconnect power before servicing. If you must run the washer to test while parts are exposed, keep hands and tools clear of moving parts and restore all guards promptly. If you’re unsure about motor or transmission repairs, consult a qualified technician.
Common Symptoms
Washer won't spin or agitate; loud squealing or squeaking during spin; slow or weak spin; visible broken/slipped belt or rubber debris under the washer.
Common Causes
- Worn, glazed, cracked, or broken drive belt
- Loose belt due to stretched belt or loose motor mounting
- Seized or damaged motor pulley or idler/tensioner
- Oil/grease contamination on belt causing slippage
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 washer unplugged, try to rotate the tub by hand. A loose, slipping, or missing belt is usually obvious because the motor may run but the tub won't spin; also look for rubber dust on the motor pulley or cabinet which indicates belt wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to replace the belt on a WTW5105HWO?
A belt replacement typically takes 30–60 minutes for someone comfortable with basic appliance repair: 10–20 minutes to access the belt, 10–20 minutes to swap and tension the belt, and the rest to reassemble and test. Allow extra time if the cabinet must be removed or if pulleys need replacement.
Can I replace the belt myself or should I call a technician?
Most homeowners with basic hand tools can replace the belt themselves using this guide. Call a technician if the motor, idler pulley, or transmission appears damaged, if you’re uncomfortable working around electrical components, or if the washer still won’t spin after replacing the belt — that can indicate a motor or transmission problem requiring professional service.
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