The Drive Pulley is an OEM replacement part specific to Whirlpool washing machines. It is a toothed wheel component located inside the washer cabinet that functions with the belt to rotate the wash drum. The drive pulley provides the rotational force needed to agitate clothes and turbulent water during cycle operation.
Causes of a faulty drive pulley include normal wear of the plastic material from extended years of operation.
Symptoms include:
- Abnormal noises (squealing or screeching sounds) emanating from within the washer cabinet
- Slow or weak drum motion, even on high agitation settings
- Premature belt wear due to slipping of the drive pulley teeth
- Visible cracks or splitting in the pulley surface
This genuine OEM part is also compatible with select Maytag, KitchenAid, and other washer brands.
Do-It-Yourself Stories from Customers like You
Drum not turning Paul H. • Seattle , WA • December 13, 2019
I pulled the unit away from the wall and noticed black dust on the floor. Unplugged the unit, turned off the water. Removed back panel (about 10 screws with Torx heads) and noticed the belt was off, the drive pulley was loose and wobbling on the shaft, black dust all over the inside. Belt was worn along one side. Some grooves/damage in the outer drum casing around the pulley where it appeared the belt had rubbed. Removed the lower crossbar (2 more screws) to get better access to the drive...
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