[brhodes58]

After a day or two of making an intermittent squeaking/squealing noise while running, now, when i press the start button, it makes a loud buzzing noise (like the noise when the load is finished) and it sounds like the motor will not engage and turn the drum. Any ideas? Thanks!

[denman]

Here are your parts
Replacement parts for WHIRLPOOL LER5636EQ3 | AppliancePartsPros.com

Sounds like your motor has bit the dust.

This may take two people.
Try rotating the drum by hand, it should rotate fairly easily.
If OK
Open the door, hold the door switch closed, push the start switch and rotated the drum in the correct direction.
Watch your hands in case it starts up.
If it does start then odds are high that you need a new motor.

[brhodes58]

Thanks! I'll give it a go and see what happens - will post outcome.
The verdict is in - the drum turned freely before proceeding to step 2. While holding the door switch closed and presssing the start button, the drum started up and began turning. Since there was no load on the drum, I went a step further and applied some light resistance to the drum, while repeating step two, and the drum would not turn - causing the start switch to trip off and not respond (for lack of a better technical description).
Thank you for your help! BR

[denman]

Yes it looks like the motor needs replacing but at $80.00 it is probably worth replacing if the rest of the unit is in good shape.

I would check the belt, rear rollers, idler wheel, drum seals etc. for slop and wear and replace as necessary. Then you will know the total cost to give it an overhaul.

Also give the interior a good cleaning and clean/check your vent system.

[brhodes58]

Good idea - better to do a little preventive maintenance while I'm at it. Thanks! BR

[brhodes58]

Have accessed the motor to replace it (and a belt). I know there are two clips to remove to free the motor but, how do i free the blower fan? Thanks!

[denman]

This should help
http://www.applianceaid.com/wpmotor-change.html