Replace a Speed Queen dryer motor with this expert advice

The motor in a dryer provides the rotational force that tumbles your laundry items so they can get dry. Over time, regular use and accidental damage can cause the motor to fail.

If the dryer drum isn’t spinning, the dryer doesn’t start, or the motor is making unusual noises, then it may need to be replaced.

Fortunately, you can tackle this repair yourself with a few basic tools and some patience to get your Speed Queen dryer back in working order.

If you need any replacement parts for your Speed Queen dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The part replacement information provided in this article 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.

What you need

• Replacement motor (make sure it’s compatible with your specific dryer model before installing)
• 1/4- inch nut driver
• Adjustable wrench

Important: 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:  Troubleshooting Tips for a Dryer Drum That Does Not Turn

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 eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• 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.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• 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.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: Why Is My Dryer Overheating? Understanding The Common Causes And Solutions

How to replace the motor

Change out the faulty motor in your Speed Queen dryer by following these steps.

Step 1: Access the old motor

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the bottom of the front access panel.
3. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws, one on each bottom corner, on the upper panel of the front of the dryer.
4. Rotate the bottom panel out to about 45 degrees and then move it down.
5. Take a picture of the door switch wiring for reference later.
6. Disconnect the wires for the door switch.
7. Set the bottom panel aside.
8. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the four screws holding the front bulkhead to the frame.
9. Lift the bulkhead up slightly to clear any tabs, then move it down and out. Set it aside.
10. Reach back and remove the belt from the motor pulley.
11. Use the belt to help pull the drum out, then set it aside.
12. Remove the 1/4-inch screws that hold the blower wheel housing cover and take off the cover.
13. Secure the motor pulley with an adjustable wrench, then rotate the blower wheel counterclockwise to remove it.
14. Use the 1/4-inch nut driver to press down and pry away the motor mounting clips.
15. Lift the old motor up and pull it away from the blower housing.

Step 2: Install the new motor

1. Angle the new motor back into the blower housing and onto the motor mount.
2. Install the motor mounting clips and reconnect the wires.
3. Place the blower wheel back on and rotate it clockwise to secure it to the motor.

Step 3: Reassemble the dryer

1. Replace the blower wheel housing cover and secure it with the 1/4-inch screws.
2. Install the drum and belt. Make sure the drum rests securely on the back rollers.
3. Reinstall the front bulkhead and secure it with the 1/4-inch screws.
4. Reconnect the door switch wires.
5. Angle the top front panel back into place and allow the top brackets to hook into the top panel.
6. Rotate the front panel into place and secure the bottom with the 1/4-inch screws.
7. Reinstall the bottom front panel and secure it with the final 1/4-inch screws.
8. Plug the dryer back in.
9. Test the dryer to make sure the new motor is working correctly.

Read more: How to replace Whirlpool dryer drive motor W10410999

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the motor in your Speed Queen 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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