[Geno Altiery]

Howdy!
My Kenmore stack, electric dryer squeaks very loudly when spinning.
It is not incessant though, but is contending for that title.
A friend said it may need a new belt. What say ye?
Thanks!

[denman]

Here are your parts
Replacement parts for KENMORE 41797822701 | AppliancePartsPros.com

I doubt it is the belt.

I can tell you that the unit is actually a Frigidaire.
I do not have a cross reference for Sears to Frigidaire but I think the following manual should be a close match to yours.
Frigidaire 27 inch Laundry Centers Gas and Electric (5995381885) Service Manual - ApplianceDigest.com
You have to join the site to download the manual but it is free and this is a very good site for manuals and other info for the appliance repair DIYer.

The most common cause of squealing on these units is the rear drum support bearing. It could be worn or it may just need cleaning and re-lubing.
Use a high temp grease for re-lubing.
Also it looks like it has a ball bearing at the back so be careful when taking it apart. the ball bearing likes to jump out when released and then play hide and seek which can waste a lot of your time.
If it is worn there is a kit available.
Part number: AP2142648

Other possibilities are:
Idler wheel
Front drum support.
Motor bearings
Something stuck in the blower.
Something stuck between the drum and the frame. Run your fingers along the seam at the front and back of the drum to check for this. Be careful just in case it is sharp.

Since you have to open the unit up I would do an overhaul on it.
Check and replace if necessary the belt, the idler wheel, the drum seals, front drum glide/support, any internal airflow seals etc.

Give the interior a good cleaning including the blower wheel.
Also this is a good time to check/clean your vent system.