Dryer Idler Pulley (Whirlpool OEM)

Description

Genuine Whirlpool OEM Dryer Idler Pulley – Part 279640

Part Number: 279640

Replaces: 279640VP, AP3094197, W10468057, 697692, 3388672, PS334244

Always verify compatibility using your appliance model number before ordering.

Dryer Idler Pulley Wheel Kit

Restore smooth, reliable tumbling to your laundry with this Factory Certified Dryer Idler Pulley Wheel Kit. This vital tensioning component mounts directly inside the lower cabinet chassis, positioned between the main drive motor and the dryer drum. Its primary job is to maintain constant, heavy spring tension against the long rubber drive belt, preventing it from slipping while the motor rotates the heavy drum filled with wet clothing.

As a Factory Certified Part, this kit is manufactured to strict original equipment engineering tolerances. If your dryer motor hums but the drum won’t spin, or if the appliance is emitting a loud squealing, screeching, or thumping noise, the internal bearings inside the idler wheel have likely seized or worn out. If the wheel stops turning, the motor shaft will quickly burn right through the rubber belt, snapping it entirely.

Quick Info:

• Compatibility: Precision engineered for major brands of gas and electric dryers (verify your specific model number for compatibility).

• Fixes Common Issues: Resolves a drum that won’t turn, loud, high-pitched squealing or grinding noises, and sudden belt breakage.

• Included Components: Contains (1) heavy-duty idler pulley wheel, (1) structural retaining tri-ring, and (1) spacing washer.

• Difficulty: Novice to Intermediate. Requires removing the dryer’s main front panel and bulkhead to access the lower motor compartment.

Tools Needed:

• Multi-screwdriver (or standard 1/4″ and 5/16″ nut drivers)

Recommended Companion Part:

Consider Replacing Your Drive Belt (Part # 661570V): Because you must completely remove the drive belt to access and change the idler pulley, it is highly recommended to install a brand-new drive belt at the same time. Over time, the extreme friction and heat inside the cabinet dry out the rubber belt, causing microscopic cracks and fraying. Installing a fresh belt now saves you from having to tear the entire dryer apart again later when the old belt inevitably snaps.

Pro Tip: This idler pulley wheel utilizes a specialized self-lubricating porous internal bushing. Do not apply any oil, grease, or WD-40 to the wheel or its mounting shaft. While lubrication might seem like a good idea to quiet a noisy pulley, it will instantly attract circulating dryer lint. The lint will mix with the oil to create a thick, gritty paste that will rapidly destroy the bushing and cause the new wheel to seize up completely. Keep the assembly totally clean and dry!

Installation & Safety Guidelines:

1. Isolate Power: You must completely unplug the dryer (or shut off the 240V house circuit breaker) before removing any cabinet panels.

2. Access the Motor Area: Remove the top console, disconnect the door switch wiring harness, and unbolt the front bulkhead panel.

3. Remove the Old Pulley: Reach under the drum to locate the tension assembly next to the motor. Release the belt tension, pop off the old plastic tri-ring from the shaft, and slide off the worn washer and pulley wheel.

4. Install the New Kit: Clean any accumulated lint off the metal shaft. Slide on the new spacing washer, press the new idler pulley wheel into place, and secure it by snapping the new tri-ring firmly into the shaft’s retaining groove. Loop your drive belt back around the wheel and motor pulley in an “S” configuration.

Are you replacing this wheel today because your drive belt has already snapped, or are you executing a proactive maintenance overhaul to eliminate a loud squealing noise?