The washing machine and dryer are two of the most important appliances in the household. Disassembly of the dryer during repairs is a skill that is important to keep in mind.
Fixing the dryer can be confusing if disassembly is not known. We will teach you how to disassemble the dryer in this article.
How to disassemble a Frigidaire Affinity dryer?
Disassembly of the dryer is a simple step-by-step process. First, we take off the top covers and side panels. Then we work our way to the internal drum and dryer motors to finish the job. It is a delicate process, so concentration and patience is the key.
In the following article, we will go over the detailed procedures through which you can disassemble your dryer.
Process Of Disassembly
The disassembly process is an easy skill to master. Patience and concentration are the keys. For the entire disassembly process, you will need the following tools:
- Pliers
- Scissors
- Philips head screwdrivers
- Flathead screwdrivers
- Putty knife
Make sure to disconnect the dryer beforehand. As the electrical demand for dryers requires a lot of electricity and can cause accidents if not disconnected before disassembly.
Start by pulling the dryer out to an open space. So that you can get access to all sides of the dryer. And additionally, make sure that you have enough space to keep the disassembled parts.
Step 1: Remove the Main Top
Your first step will be to remove the main top of the dryer. Whether the model you have is based on a rear control or front, the process is the same. This is because the main top is attached separately to the main controls of the dryer.
This is done to avoid any water damage to the controls. In case, it leaks water. So, to remove the top panel you will have to use a putty knife to pry it open. Then you must support the top open using the linking chains.
Usually, the dryers come with a linking chain. But if your model doesn’t have one, you can also use any rope to do the same. Keep in mind that the panels have sharp edges, and not to hurt yourself.
You should always have proper tools while working with electronics. So, we have suggested some putty knives:
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Step 2: Disconnect Wire Harness
Now, depending on your model of the dryer, you must disconnect the door switch wires. Many models have an automated door switch. So, this step could be skipped in those models of dryers.
Then use your hands to gently disconnect the wire harness. You must make sure not to apply excess pressure, as they are a delicate part of the dryer and can come off. This might lead to unnecessary complexities.
As there may be electrical discharges from the open wiring. And on an added fact, the doors will not close properly.
Step 3: Cut Off Zip Ties
Now you will have to grab a pair of scissors to cut off the zip ties. The zip ties hold the wires in place. But they will get in the way of the disassembly when we try to remove the dryer drum.
Now, select a screwdriver and remove the front panel. Mount the screws. After unscrewing, you can now remove the front panel entirely.
Apart from disassembling, you might also be curious about resetting the Frigidaire Affinity dryer.
Step 4: Remove Rear Panel and Drive Belt
Cutting the zip ties must be done before this step. Because the front panel is attached to it. After removing the front panel, you will have to remove the rear panel.
Remove the access panel from the back side of the dryer. Remember that these internals are sharp and using work gloves is advised:
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Now you must reach into the rear access panel and push into the idler pulley to release the tension. This removes the tension from the belt. Now you can unthread the belt from the pulley and motor shaft.
You will have to detach the spacer from the front of the dryer by removing the mounting screw.
Step 5: Remove the Drum
Now you can finally remove the drum. Use the belt to get access and pull the drum out. It is advised to have two people while removing the drum as it is heavy. Make sure you don’t damage the belt while disassembly. As it is an important part of the dryer machine.
After completing the process with the above-mentioned procedure you are all set. Now you can see the interior of your dryer machine. Now you can work on any internal problems with the dryer. Be it an access problem, overheating, or a bad dryer motor.
And this is how you disassemble a dryer.
FAQs
Question: Why is the dryer making a squeaking sound?
Answer: If you hear squeaks from your Frigidaire clothes dryer, check the idler pulley for wear. The idler pulley maintains the drum belt taut, allowing it to rotate smoothly. The squeak is frequently caused by a wheel that has stiffened to the point that it struggles to turn while also trying to keep the belt tensioner.
Question: What’s the best way to lube a Frigidaire dryer?
Answer: Take care not to lose the bearing’s grounding ball, since it might easily come out once the component is exposed. Apply one or two drops of grease to each bearing, making sure the lubricant completely covers it. Reassemble the dryer after wiping away any excess with a clean, dry cloth.
Question: Is it possible to use WD40 in a dryer?
Answer: WD40 is more of a penetrating oil than a lubricant. The problem with the dryer is that lint gets everywhere and sticks to the greased/lubed parts. If anything, synthetic grease should be used.
Conclusion
To sum up, we hope that this information was useful in resolving your issues. From start to end, this tutorial has shown you how to disassemble a Frigidaire Affinity dryer. We also hope that the information we provided is useful to you.
Best wishes until next time!