How to replace GE dryer drum baffle WE14X20683


Steven E / Friday May 17, 2024


Is your GE dryer leaving your clothes damp or causing them minor damage? The culprit might be a worn-out drum baffle, a common issue that can easily be fixed in under an hour! Dive into our step-by-step guide below with an accompanying video that shows you exactly how to replace your dryer’s drum baffle and get your appliance back to peak performance.

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

The drum baffle on a GE dryer is located inside the dryer drum and helps move laundry around so it can dry during the cycle. Over time, the drum baffle can wear out or break, which could potentially damage laundry items or prevent them from moving around to dry.

Changing out the drum baffle is an easy repair that should take you under an hour to complete.

You can find a replacement drum baffle for your GE dryer here. If you need other replacement parts for your GE dryer, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch the repair here: How to replace GE Dryer Drum Baffle WE14X20683

What you need

  • New baffle (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model before installing)
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • 1/4-inch nut driver
  • Flathead screwdriver

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: How To Find Your Appliance’s Model Number

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
  • If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
  • If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any gas leaks while you work.
  • Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
  • Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
  • Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
  • Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
  • Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
  • Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.

How to replace the drum baffle

Follow these steps to get your dryer spinning with a new baffle.

  1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
  2. Open the dryer door.
  3. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the top of the dryer in place.
  4. Close the door.
  5. Move to the back of the dryer and find the access panel. Use a nut driver to remove the screws that hold it.
  6. Lift the access panel and take it off. If needed, use a small flathead screwdriver to loosen the ground wire.
  7. You should now have access to the control board. Take a picture of the wiring to reference later on.
  8. Press the locking tabs on the wires to release them. Remove the Ethernet plug by pressing the little locking tab with a small flathead screwdriver, then pull it out.
  9. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws that hold the control panel in place. Pull back on the control panel to release the tabs and lift it off.
  10. Remove the little covers on each side of the dryer with a nut driver. Lift and pull them out, and set them aside.
  11. Unclip the wires from the holder and carefully feed them down through the hole. Repeat this on the other side of the dryer.
  12. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw on each side that holds the top of the dryer to the cabinet. Lift the top slightly, push it back, and then lift it off so you have access to the drum.
  13. Find the screws that are holding the old drum baffle in place. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove them. Be careful so they don’t fall into the bottom of the dryer.
  14. Open the door and hold the baffle to prevent it from falling as you remove the last screw.
  15. Pull the drum baffle out.
  16. Align the new drum baffle with the screw holes. Secure it with the screws and Phillips screwdriver.
  17. Close the dryer door. Make sure the lip of the top goes underneath the panel to lock it in place.
  18. Lower the top down, align the tabs and slide it forward. Make sure the wires are pulled out to prevent them from getting pinched between the top and the cabinet.
  19. Open the door and use the Phillips screwdriver to secure the top of the dryer to the cabinet.
  20. Put the covers back on each side and route the wires. Insert the feet into the openings and use the 1/4-inch nut driver to put the screws back in.
  21.  Lock the wires in place with the holders. Repeat this process on the other side.
  22. Reattach the control panel by aligning the tabs and openings. Push it forward to lock it in place. Use the nut driver to reattach the screws.
  23. Reconnect all the wires to the control board and make sure each wire clicks into place.
  24. Attach the Ethernet wire by lining up the tab and snapping it into place.
  25. Put the access panel back on and attach the ground wire to the ground terminal.
  26. Lift the panel so the feet go into the holders and let it drop into place. Secure the access panel with the screws.
  27. Plug in the power cord.
  28. Run a small test cycle to check for any problems.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the drum baffle on your GE dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two 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.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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