How to Troubleshoot & Replace Samsung AP4211487 / DC61-01215B Dryer Idler Tension Spring

I knew something in the dryer was failing because the dryer had been louder than usual and making some squealing noises for about 6 months. The dryer still worked though, so it was added to the "to worry about eventually" list. I learned a lot about electric dryers during this repair. They're pretty simple on the inside. You can find a ton of YouTube videos on how to repair the Samsung machines. Anyway, when the drum stopped turning I assumed it was a broken belt. On my particular Samsung, you can get access to the idler pulley and can visually inspect the belt through a panel on the back of the machine. When I opened it up, I saw the Idler Pulley was broken (the plastic wheel had shredded to pieces). I purchased a new idler pulley, drum belt, and idler tension spring. I wanted all of the possible parts so I could knock this out at once. I replaced the idler pulley (you just need a screwdriver) and used the old belt. It was a bit worn and I'm sure I'll need to replace it eventually, but I didn't feel like opening up the entire dryer right now. I probably didn't need the idler tension spring. It was cheap enough that I'll keep it in my workbench just in case. Anyway, I replaced the idler pulley with nothing but a screwdriver, cleaned out the dust that had accumulated in the dryer and it runs once again. I should mention this appliance is only about 6.5 years old and spent about half of its life kid free. It's a bit disappointing that it failed so early, BUT Appliance Parts Pros website made it super easy to get the parts and fix it and save a ton of money. This is a repair that many people can probably do all on their own. Watch a few YouTube videos on how to determine the issue and repair. The hardest part was getting the belt back on the pulley. I rated it a 2 because the belt is a bit of a pain to get back on the pulley and whatnot. Oh and be sure to put a towel or something on the exposed sheet metal when you go in through the back. It's sharp! 

I researched the issue on You tube and found out it could be either the "belt broke switch" or the Moisture sensor. A friend who was an appliance mechanic advised "since you have to take it all apart anyways, its best to replace the belt, spring, and Idler wheel" I bought the 5 item for $52. I watched the video on the AppliancePartsPros for changing out the belt and I replace all items on the list. Took 1 1/2 hrs and was fixed on restart!! * Wear gloves, the sheet metal is very sharp edges!* 

Purchased a motor, belt and a new idler pulley. Didn't need a belt but the original was stretched a little and the idler pulley was a little stiff. I watched the video, took it apart and took about twenty minutes to take it apart and put it back together. 

Replaced blown thermal fuse and while I had the dryer opened, I also replaced the thermistor & thermostat. I ordered the parts from appliancepartspro.com that were shipped within 24 hours. Dryer is now working again. 

Internet search said common issue was the idle pulley bearing failure. I ordered parts blind so got a belt tension spring and the pulley. I did use the video to take it apart. My model was slightly different but as I am a mechanic by trade I figured it out. The internet was correct the idler pulley was the issue but the shaft was also damaged a little from pulley bearing not working. I was able to clean up shaft and I applied an axle grease when reassembling. I plan on ordering a new belt and idler bracket so if it does go out again parts are on hand. As a note the idler pulley is held on by a plastic triangle clip which is reusable but would order an extra if only doing the pulley. It took longer to get the dryer off the stand and put it back on stand than to do repair, 1 hour total. 

Replaced tension arm and pulley wheel, spring and belt. Got good help from the videos. The hardest part was moving the washing machine to get access to the back of the dryer. 

My 16 yr old grandson took the whole thing apart, replaced the idler pulley, spring, drum belt and support roller, then put it all back together, with the wonderful help from the videos provided by your website! It is running smoothly and efficiently. Thank you! 

As illustrated in your videos, I found a broken Idler assembly and worn wheel. Ordered parts from you guys (received them early the next day) and replaced. Your videos made it very easy to disassemble, ID / replace the bad parts and re-assemble. Best part.. everything worked on the first try. Thanks for the fantastic videos and service! The cost of an initial service call (to tell me 'yeah, its broke) would have cost more than the parts did. G.S. in MA 

I took apart my dryer checked all my rollers and noticed on of my rollers was locked up, so I replaced the rear roller. I checked the belt unhooked the drum and found out the tension pulley was shot so I replaced the pulley. I went ahead and changed out the belt and tension spring as well. Very easy fix. 

Replaced idler pulley,spring and drum belt