How to replace the drum rollers in a dryer?

Unplug the dryer and remove the lint screen, followed by the top, front, and back panels. Access the back of the drum and unscrew it to remove the roller from its bracket. Clean the area and reinstall the new rollers carefully. Finally, reassemble the dryer by reversing the steps and then run a test cycle.

What are drum roller in dryer?

Clothes dryers use a tumbler drum that spins to remove moisture from clothing which is supported by a few rollers.

These drum rollers help the drum rotate smoothly and are located at the back of the dryer drum.

These rollers support the drum during the operation and keep it from wobbling.

In other words, it is like a rotating cylinder that can be found attached to the back of the dryer to support the tumbling process.

Due to prolonged usage, the rollers wear out, moreover, these rollers include small bearings that can also wear over time causing the dryer to become noisy or even stop working altogether.

Most dryers have two drum rollers fixed to the rear of the drum to support or balance the rotation.

Depending on your dryer type and model it can have four rollers installed, two at the front and another two at the back.

In most cases, the rollers need a replacement in the event of wear-outs.

Accordingly, when you buy a replacement drum roller set you will receive the required number of rollers in the kit as per the model and type of your dryer.

In order to determine the number of rollers installed in your dryer, simply refer to the user manual of your dryer model before detaching the access panels.

Alternatively, you can go to the manufacturer’s website to check the number of rollers your dryer model uses.

How to replace the drum rollers in a dryer?

Once you have determined the number of rollers needed, follow the below instructions to replace the drum rollers safely.

Step 1: Disconnect the supplies to the dryer

Disconnect the dryer from the power source and remove the vent hose from the back of the dryer.

Step 2: Remove the lint screen

Remove the screws that hold the lint screen housing in place and take out the lint screen.

You can clean the lint screen before reinstalling it later. As of now keep it aside.

Step 3: Detach the access panels

Remove the screws that secure the top of the dryer cabinet and lift off the top panel.

Now, take out the screws that hold the front and back panels in place and remove them to gain access to the drum.

Step 4: Remove the drum

Remove any remaining hardware that’s holding the drum in place example: rings or clips. 

Withdraw the drum carefully from inside of the dryer cabinet and again by being mindful not to scratch or damage anything inside.

Set it aside on a clean surface where it will not be moved around too much so that no further damage occurs.

Step 5: Unsecure the old drum roller

Next, remove the Drum Roller Bracket from the back by unscrewing the two screws that hold it in place.

Clean the exposed areas with a sponge and then install the replacement rollers carefully.

Make sure that they are seated properly in the bracket before screwing them back into place.

Step 6: Reassemble the dryer

Reattach the drum, followed by the front and back panels of your clothes dryer.

Clean the lint screen and fix it back to its place, then reconnect the supplies to the dryer.

Before plugging it back in, just turn the drum by hand to make sure it moves smoothly and doesn’t make any strange noises.

Lastly, plug the dryer into a power outlet and put it through a test cycle to make sure it works.

Final Thoughts

Drum rollers in general are sturdy and usually last as long as the dryer itself.

However, they may wear out in the long run due to regular wear and tear or if you often dry heavier loads.

If your clothes dryer is not working as efficiently as it used to or if it is becoming noisy, then chances are that the drum rollers need to be replaced.

If you aren’t familiar with or comfortable with DIY appliance repair stuff, then simply contact a service professional.

It’s not wise to risk yourself for the sake of saving pennies, as damage could be even more costly.

Frequently Asked Questions