The Washer Idler Pulley Wheel is an OEM part for Whirlpool washing machines. This component is designed to maintain the appropriate tension on the washer's drive belt, ensuring smooth and efficient operation during the wash and spin cycles. It helps to reduce wear on the belt and other moving parts.
You should replace the idler pulley wheel if it becomes worn, damaged, or if the bearings fail. Common causes of a bad idler pulley wheel include regular wear and tear from continuous use, exposure to excessive loads, or debris causing damage to the wheel or bearings.
Symptoms of a bad idler pulley wheel include:
- Squeaking or grinding noises during operation
- The washer not spinning or agitating properly
- The drive belt slipping or coming off
- Increased vibration or shaking during cycles
This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.
Do-It-Yourself Stories from Customers like You
The issue was a 10+year old Maytag washer wouldn't spin nor would the agitator move but the motor would run. Wessley R. • Trinity , AL • July 28, 2020
Upon removal of the lower inspection panel on the front of the machine, my 20 year old son thought the motor was bad by the smell. But he did discover what turned out to be the belt tensioner pulley laying inside the machine. After he pronounced it dead, without a thought to the idler pulley, I looked at the machine and determined the lack of movement was due to the idler pulley having "fallen" off the shaft by looking at the illustrated parts break down provided on this website.
Ordered the...
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