I'm attempting to replace the belt on a Whirlpool WED7500VW0 dryer.

This dryer doesn't have a belt tensioner, which I've gathered is uncommon.

I have the factory certified replacement part, 8183101, but it seems too small (linearly) by an inch or two (see picture). When the drum isn't seated I can loop the belt around it and the drive shaft, but then seating the drum seems to take too much force. The belt is rubber, but should it have to stretch so much?

Is stretching the belt normal? Is there a trick to installation? I'm taking care to align the belt on the drum with the drive shaft - so that as much as possible the reach of the belt is maximized. But even if I don't have it perfectly aligned, it's hard to imagine I'm losing an inch or two.

Here is a service manual for a similar model.

Thank you,
Dave