[crussell01]

I have a Whirlpool dryer, model LE4905XMW1, and yesterday it overheated. I had accidentally not seated the kidney-shaped lint screen / trap into the back of the unit properly and while the dryer was running it fell out, causing some clothing to become stuck in the lint passage. The dryer stopped spinning and I could smell a burnt rubber smell. I removed all clothing from the lint passage and replaced the lint screen, and after the unit cooled off for a couple hours it would start spinning again BUT, I still smell that burnt smell while it's running (though not as strongly as before) so I'm unable to use it. It smells very much like the belt was burnt a bit. Would you agree that this is a logical conclustion, and that it's not a problem within the motor itself?

I plan to order the replacement belt however the instruction manual for this unit is no longer available, according to the nice gentleman whom I called there at ApplicanePartsPros.com. He suggested that I submit my questions here. What I would like to ask is: how does one replace the belt on this older model of Whirlpool portable dryer? I've already installed a replacement pwoer cord for this unit and that was very easy, so I'm hoping that replacing the belt is also easy. And my other question is: does this sound like it's a belt issue and not something more serious affecting the actual motor or another part? Thanks very much for your help.

[sidfink43]

I am not familiar with that model, but I think if I were my advice would still be the same.

Unfortunately, odor issues are very difficult to diagnose from afar because, well, we cannot smell what you are smelling. It is not likely that your belt is the problem, it either pretty much works or it does not work and if it were slipping and making the odor for that reason you drum would not turn or turn very fast. I don't think the belt could have become burnt and cause your smell.

Given that the dryer came to a halt the most likely culprit is your motor. Given the age of your machine I would think it is time for a replacement. Also, you do not want the potential safety problems with a motor that is on its way out. Rather than put money into this machine, with a little more you can get a nice, recent, used machine or a new, basic dryer, which is all most people need is not expensive.

Sorry I could not be more positive, but good luck and let us know what you decide.