Maytag Dryer Problem

[jborden]

I have a Maytag Dryer.  Model # LDE8414ACE.  The dryer is approx 11 years old.  The belt was replaced about 5 years ago.

Problem: The dryer makes a loud, continuouis noise while running.  Sounds like a cross between the belt squealing and metal on metal.  The dryer also takes a little longer to dry clothes.  The drum is turning and the dyer does get hot.

Before I start taking the thing apart, I was wondering where I should start, try a new belt?

Jeff

[AJ]

Hi jborden

Here is a diagram of your dryer.

LDE8414ACE Diagram

I would take a look at #8 (Tumbler Bearing Kit) on the diagram.

Tumbler Bearing Kit

Does the dryer make any rumbling noise after the motor has stopped?

[jborden]

No, there is no rumbling noise after the dryer has stopped.  Jeff

[AJ]

No, there is no rumbling noise after the dryer has stopped.  Jeff

Then the fan blade is probly ok.

I would take the front off and check the Tumbler Bearing they are just some pads that the front of the dryer rides on. If they look ok then remove the drum and check the two rear rollers wheels.

[jborden]

Thanks for your help.  I will keep you posted on the results.  Jeff

[AJ]

Thanks for your help.  I will keep you posted on the results.  Jeff

Sounds great, good luck with the repair.

[AJ]

Thanks for your help.  I will keep you posted on the results.  Jeff

Jeff,

How did the repair go?

[jborden]

I still have not attempted the repair, but I am working on it today.  Not much room to work, I need to un-plug the dryer and move it outside.

I also learned that the dryer may not be getting hot enough.  I put a magnetic thermometer inside the dryer and let it run for 15 minutes.  The temperature was 110 degrees F.  Is the temperature supposed to be hotter?

If the temp is not hot enough, what do I do?

Thanks for your help.
Jeff

[AJ]

I always check the temp at the back of the dryer were the vent connects.

It should be around 130-145 or so. The temp is often stamped on the dryer thermostats.
The dryer thermostat will say something like 140F or L-140.

Make sure you take a good look were the lint trap goes when you take it apart.
Often times lint will build up in there and will need to be cleaned out.

Once you get the front off check the blower wheel to see if you can easily spin it by hand.
If you can it is stripped out and will need to be replaced.

Good luck

[jborden]

I think I have fixed the problem:
Thanks for the tip on where to measure for temperature. The temperature was 150 degrees coming out of the vent in the back.  When I moved the dryer and checked the exhaust duct for a blockage, there was evidence of a mouse in there at one time.  There was a lot of lint, it may have been partially blocking the airflow causing the drying time to increase.

I was able to manuver the dryer and observe the idler pulley assembly while the dryer was running and that is the area of the noise. I sprayed the shaft of the pulley and the drive bearing of the motor with graphite spray and the noise was suddenly gone.  It came back within a few minutes so I sprayed it with a different type of lubricant and the noise is totally gone.  I think I fixed it, I'll let you know for sure.  Thanks for your help.

[AJ]

That's great jborden,

Thanks for the update.