How to replace Samsung dryer drum support roller retainer DC61-01228A

If your Samsung dryer is making loud rumbling noises or the drum isn’t turning smoothly, the problem could be caused by a broken drum support roller retainer.

This small plastic part holds the drum roller securely in place as the drum rotates. When a retainer breaks, the roller can slip or move out of position, which can lead to noisy operation and potential damage to the drum.

Replacing a worn-out or cracked roller retainer is an easy DIY repair that you should be able to knock out in less than an hour. Let’s walk through the entire process of accessing and replacing the drum support roller retainer in your Samsung dryer.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Keep safety first 

Before starting any appliance repair project, it’s critical to disconnect the power source or switch off the circuit breaker to protect yourself from electric shock.

If you have an electric dryer, unplug the unit from the outlet. If you’re working on a gas dryer, make sure to turn off the gas valve and shut off the circuit breaker.

What you need

• Phillips head screwdriver – For removing screws that hold parts in place
• Flat blade screwdriver – For prying off the old roller retainer from the shaft
• Replacement drum support roller retainer (DC61-01228A) from AppliancePartsPros.com

Replacement steps

Step 1 – Remove the dryer’s outer panels

1. Find the two screws that hold the top panel. There should be one in each rear corner. Remove both screws using the Phillips screwdriver.
2. With the screws out, you can slide the panel back about two inches and lift it off.
3. Release the control panel by pulling up on the front edge and tilting it forward to disconnect the wiring plugs. Press the locking tabs to detach the two plugs from the control board. You can move it to the side.
4. Take out the two screws located behind the door in front of the filter housing with the Phillips head screwdriver. Close the door once the screws are removed.
5. Remove the four screws across the top of the panel.
6. Rotate the top of the front panel out slightly, disconnect the door switch wire, tilt the front panel forward then lift up to remove it.

Step 2 – Access the drum and rollers

1. With the outer panels removed, you’ll see a large top brace spanning the interior cabinet. Take out the five Phillips screws to detach this brace.
2. Find the two wire harnesses that are clipped into retainers on the brace. Slide them out to fully disconnect the brace.
3. Find the front bulkhead panel at the front of the drum. Remove the four side screws from the bulkhead and one bottom screw at the blower housing using the Phillips screwdriver. Detach the wiring harness, lift up on the bulkhead, and pull it forward to remove it.
4. Two of the rollers are attached directly to the bulkhead. Behind the bulkhead, you’ll see the drum and two of the support rollers at the back. Remove the belt from the pulleys to lift out the drum.

Step 3 – Remove the drum

1. Reach into the cabinet and push the idler pulley arm to release tension on the belt.
2. Carefully slip the belt off the idler pulley and the motor pulley.
3. Slowly let the idler arm down, then lift up on the drum and maneuver it out of the dryer cabinet.

With the drum removed, you can access the rear support rollers and retainers much more easily.

Step 4 – Remove the old retainer

1. Find the small plastic retainer clipped into a groove in the front and at the back of each roller shaft.
2. Insert a flat-blade screwdriver between the retainer and the shaft. Then gently pry upwards to pop the retainer out of the groove. Slide it off the end of the shaft to remove it.
3. Inspect the old drum support roller retainer. If it’s cracked or broken, that’s most likely the culprit behind your noisy, shaky drum.

Step 5 – Install the new retainer

1. Double-check that the new retainer is the correct part for your Samsung dryer model.
2. Place the retainer on the end of the shaft.
3. Push it firmly until the retainer fully clicks into place in the groove.

Repeat this process to replace any other damaged retainers on the front or rear drum support rollers. Take this opportunity to wipe out any dust or debris in the dryer.

Step 6 – Reassemble the dryer

With the new retainers installed, you can now reassemble the dryer.

Install the drum

1. Maneuver the drum back into the cabinet, resting the back edge on the two rear support rollers.
2. Reach into the cabinet and thread the belt back onto the idler pulley and motor pulley.
3. Slowly turn the drum by hand to make sure the belt is seated properly on the pulleys.

Replace the bulkhead and braces

1. Set the front bulkhead panel back into position, guiding the air duct into the blower housing.
2. Lift up on the drum so the front support rollers fit beneath the bulkhead.
3. Install the screws to secure the bulkhead to the side panels.
4. Replace the top brace, threading the two wire harnesses through the cutouts before installing the screws.
5. Reconnect the moisture sensor wiring plug.

Secure the outer panels

1. Tilt the front panel forward, attaching the bottom hinges first.
2. Reconnect the door switch wiring.
3. Install the top and filter housing screws to secure the panel.
4. Set the control panel back in place, pressing to lock the top tabs.
5. Reinstall the two wiring plugs.
6. Slide the top panel forward to lock it in place and install the two rear screws.

Before you test the dryer, take this opportunity to wipe out any dust or debris around it, clean the exterior and make sure the leveling feet are adjusted.

Step 7 – Test the dryer

With all the panels replaced and screws tightened down, you’re ready to test out your handiwork.

1. Plug the dryer back in or turn the circuit breaker back on.
2. Turn on the dryer and start a test cycle.
3. Listen to and watch the drum’s rotation. The drum should turn smoothly and quietly, with no slipping or loud rumbling noise.

If the dryer isn’t operating properly, recheck the repair. Make sure the new retainers are fully seated and the drum is centered properly. The belt should have even tension on both sides.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the drum support roller retainer in your Samsung dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over 2 million parts and most orders arrive in 2-3 business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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