Washing Machine & Tumble Dryer Motor Drive Belts – Installation, Replacement & Troubleshooting Guide
If the Belt Appears to Be Too Long
If the code printed on the new belt matches the code on the old belt but the replacement belt still seems too long, there are a few common causes to check.
1. Make Sure the Belt Is Installed Correctly
Confirm the belt is routed properly around the motor spindle and drum pulley. An incorrectly positioned belt will feel loose even if it’s the correct size.
Examples of Incorrect Installation
Here are some typical fitting mistakes that can make a correct belt appear too long:
Belt not fully seated on the motor spindle It may be sitting on the edge rather than in the groove.
Belt placed on the wrong side of the tensioning arm or jockey wheel This changes the belt path and creates slack.
Belt not aligned on the drum pulley If it’s off‑centre, it won’t tension correctly.
Pulley not rotating freely A stiff or jammed pulley can prevent the belt from tightening as it should.
Check the has been installed correctly around the pulley. HERE ARE SOME EXAMPLES:
If the Belt Appears Too Small
Most modern washing machine and washer‑dryer drive belts are what the trade calls “stretch” belts. These belts are designed to stretch into position and can feel extremely tight during fitting. For anyone unfamiliar with them, it can look as though the belt is far too small — but if the belt code matches, it will fit.
Belt Codes and Ridges
Drive belts usually have a printed code that indicates:
The length
The number of ribs/ridges
The number of ridges can sometimes differ from the original belt. This is usually not a problem as long as the pulley has enough width to accommodate the extra ribs.
example: 6PHE 1991 mm with six ribs:
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Fitting the Belt
1. Remove Any Remains of the Old Belt
If the previous belt has frayed, strands often wrap tightly around the motor pulley shaft. These can:
Reduce performance
Damage the new belt
Cause premature belt failure
Take a moment to clean the pulley thoroughly before fitting the replacement.
2. Expect a Tight Fit
Modern stretch belts can be very tight and awkward to install. Take care — getting a finger caught between the belt and pulley will hurt, and sharp edges can make it worse.
3. Correct Fitting Method
Follow this approach for the best chance of success:
Start at the bottom Place the belt around the motor drive pulley first.
Bring the belt up to the drum pulley Keep the belt under tension as you guide it upward.
Fit the belt onto the drum pulley Hold the belt firmly on the drive side of the drum pulley.
Rotate the drum pulley slowly Turn the pulley by hand while keeping the belt in place. The belt will gradually walk onto the pulley and seat correctly.
This method reduces strain, improves control, and helps prevent injury.
