How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP5983729 / 661570V Whirlpool Drive Belt

Ordered a replacement belt for my specific model electric Sears Kenmore (Whirlpool built Dryer). My dryer is more than thirty years old and I was glad that AppliancePartsPros.com had the part in stock. I watched many How To videos on YouTube before tackling this do-it-yourself job and that was a must. Some people said this job could be done in ten minutes (they must have been experienced professionals). Having never done this before, it took me a good three hours from start to finish. Be sure to have a pair of gloves to protect you from sharp edges on the dryer sheet metal. The most difficult part of the job for me was getting the drive belt correctly looped over the drum and motor/tension pulley. I had to lay on my side on the floor and because I could not see the motor and tension pulley had to do this part of the job by touch. The tension pulley requires considerable strength to move it into position so that the drive belt can be looped properly. I took a screen shot of the motor/tension pulley before starting this effort and mentally practiced the steps that I would need to take since I would not be able to see from my vantage point. The whole job was quite an experience and I am glad that it has been only once in over three decades! // 

Replace the drum belt. 

Disconnect of fans, If it was hard to get loose with a wrench, before rounding the nut, use some oil or wd-40 and vice grip, hold the other end with a adjustable wrench. 

Took the back panel off using sockets and a Phillip screwdriver. Replaced the drive belt after reviewing belt replacement videos. 

The dryer showed an f-22 code and when I tried to start the dryer nothing would happen other than a slight click. Rather than running out to purchase a new replacement dryer, I decided to try and fix it myself. I disassembled the dryer and found a frayed belt, broke motor pulley. The code suggested that it was a thermistor. I decided to order a new motor, belt, thermistor, and other sensors since I was in there. Everything arrived quickly and was easy to replace. Reassembled and worked flawlessly. The total repair cost is around $300 in parts which is a win compared to a new dryer. 

Replaced the worn parts and cleaned the unit of lint buildup. 

Accessed the drum and found the belt broken. 

Purchased the new Drive Belt from you. Watched the how-to video and changed it myself. It’s working like brand new. Girl power lol 

The broken belt was clearly in need of replacement. I watched the repair video and put the new one on without much hassle. It worked! 

We watched a short video on how to repair and showing all possible symptoms. We then took that information and applied it to our appliance, and it worked!