Problem
Push the start button, motor hums, drum doesn't spin. Reach in and spin the drum by hand — it moves freely. Belt is broken or off the drum.
Which Part?
- OEM: 341241 (Whirlpool part number)
- Compatibility: All Whirlpool 29" dryers from 1965+ — including Kenmore, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Estate. This is one of the most universal parts in appliance repair.
- Original: $15-25
- Aftermarket: $8-15 (same spec, often same factory)
Tools
- 1/4" nut driver or screwdriver
- Putty knife (to release the top panel clips)
- Flashlight
Steps
1. Unplug the dryer. Seriously, unplug it.
2. Pop the top panel. Slide a putty knife under the front edge, about 2-3 inches from each corner. Push in to release the spring clips. The whole top panel flips up and back.
3. Remove the front panel. Two screws at the top corners (now exposed) + two inside the door frame on some models. The front panel comes forward and off — watch for the door switch wires, unplug them.
4. Lift the drum out. The belt is probably sitting on the floor of the dryer now, or wrapped around the motor shaft.
5. Thread the new belt.
- Grooved side facing the drum
- Wrap around the drum first (you can see a worn ring where the old belt rode)
- Route down and around the idler pulley, then around the motor pulley in a figure-8
6. Hold the belt in place on the motor pulley while lifting the drum back in. This is the tricky step — work slowly.
7. Spin the drum by hand to check belt tension. It should feel springy, not loose.
8. Reverse the teardown. Front panel, top panel.
9. Plug in, test.
Pro Tip: Buy the Kit
If your belt broke after 10+ years, the idler pulley and drum rollers are probably worn too. They sound the same (humming, squeaking, failure-to-spin). Buy the "29-inch dryer repair kit" (4392065 / 4392067) — belt + pulley + rollers — for ~$20. You'll save a second teardown.
我们卖这个 kit 吗？ Yes — the full 4392065 compatible kit with upgraded sealed-bearing rollers.