Whirlpool Dryer LP Conversion Kit W11581317 Installation Guide

Thinking about switching your Whirlpool gas dryer to propane? Before you begin, ensure you’re equipped with the right tools and parts — including the LP conversion kit. Our easy-to-follow guide, complete with a detailed how-to video just below, will ensure a smooth and safe transition for your dryer.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

Planning to run your Whirlpool gas dryer on propane instead of natural gas? You’ll need the W11581317 LP conversion kit to make the switch safely. This kit adjusts the burner system so your dryer operates efficiently on liquid propane, which burns differently than natural gas. We’ll walk you through the process step by step to help you get your dryer propane-ready the right way. Let’s get started!

Watch here: How to install the LP conversion kit on a Whirlpool dryer

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Tools and materials needed

Before beginning the installation, make sure you have gathered all of the required tools and parts:

• Putty knife
• 5/16-inch nut driver
• Small flat-blade screwdriver
• 3/8-inch wrench
• Pliers
• LP gas conversion kit W11581317– Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct part number for your unit. 

Safety first!

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. 
• Turn off the gas to your unit.
• 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 clearly 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.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Replacement steps

Step 1: Open the Dryer and Access Internal Components

1. Open the dryer door.
2. Use a putty knife to release the two locking clips located beneath the front corners of the top panel.
3. Lift the top panel and rest it against the wall or on a support.

Step 2: Remove Front Panel and Drum

1. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the door switch wiring harness.
2. Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws securing the front panel (one on each side).
3. Tilt the front panel slightly back and lift it off the bottom mounting clips.
4. Disconnect the two moisture sensor wires (note their orientation—black wire on top).
5. Remove two 5/16-inch screws at the bottom, two screws on each side and loosen two screws at the top.
6. Lift the bulkhead off the loosened top screws and remove it.
7. Reach beneath the drum, push the idler pulley toward the motor, and release the drive belt.
8. Remove the drum from the cabinet.

Step 3: Convert the Gas Valve

1. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to disconnect the gas coil wiring harness.
2. Use pliers to loosen the existing vent cap on the gas valve regulator and remove it by hand.
3. Save the old cap and natural gas orifice in case you need to convert it back later.
4. Install the blocking pin (included in the kit) in place of the removed cap and tighten slightly with pliers.
5. Reconnect the gas coil wiring harness.

Step 4: Replace the Gas Orifice

1. Use a 5/16-inch nut driver to remove the two screws holding the burner tube in place.
2. Carefully slide the burner tube off the gas valve.
3. Be cautious of the fragile igniter attached to it.
4. Use a 3/8-inch wrench to remove the existing natural gas orifice.
5. Install the correct orifice for your fuel type, #55 orifice for propane and #49 orifice for butane.
6. Thread the new orifice into the valve and tighten with the 3/8-inch wrench.
7. Reposition the burner tube and secure it with the two 5/16-inch screws.
8. Apply the burner base conversion label to the base near the gas valve.

Step 5: Reinstall the Drum and Drive Belt

1. Wrap the drive belt around the drum with the ribbed side facing the drum (align it with the original belt mark).
2. Set the drum onto the rear support rollers.
3. From underneath, pull down the belt and route it around the idler pulley and over the motor pulley.
4. Rotate the drum one full turn to ensure the belt is seated correctly.

Step 6: Reinstall the Front Bulkhead and Panel

1. Position the drum lip onto the front bulkhead.
2. Hang the bulkhead on the top screws and then tighten them.
3. Install the four 5/16-inch screws on the sides and bottom of the bulkhead.
4. Reconnect the moisture sensor wires (black wire on top).
5. Align the front panel with the bottom mounting clips and push it into place.
6. Secure the front panel with the two 5/16-inch screws.
7. Reconnect the door switch wiring harness.

Step 7: Secure the Top and Label the Dryer

1. Lower the top panel and press down until it clicks and locks in place.
2. Apply the provided conversion labels to the front of the dryer or near the gas valve, as per the instructions.

Final Steps

1. Close the dryer door.
2. Plug in the dryer and turn on the gas supply.
3. Check for gas leaks using a soapy water solution on fittings (look for bubbles).
4. Run a test cycle to ensure the dryer ignites properly and operates normally.

More Information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you install the Lp conversion kit in your Whirlpool gas 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.

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