If your top-load washer will not spin, agitate, or drain correctly and you hear squealing or a burning rubber smell, the drive belt may be worn or broken. Belt part WPW10006384 is a common OEM belt used on many Whirlpool-family brands, including select Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, and Inglis belt-driven models. This guide explains symptoms, safety, tools, diagnostics, and step-by-step replacement so you can restore normal wash and spin performance.
Before You Begin
- Confirm your washer is belt-driven. Some models use a direct-drive system and do not have a belt. Check your model tag and user manual.
- Safety first. Unplug the washer, turn off both water supplies, and move the unit for access. Protect the floor with a towel or blanket.
- Tools. 1/4 in or 5/16 in nut driver, Phillips screwdriver, flat blade screwdriver, work gloves, flashlight. A putty knife can help remove a lower cover on some models.
- Parts. WPW10006384 drive belt. Inspect the drive pulley, motor pulley, idler/tensioner, and splutch or transmission pulley while you are in there. Replace worn parts together for best results.
For model-specific diagrams and safety guidance, see Whirlpool Product Help. For electrical safety basics, see the CSA electrical safety tips.
Common Symptoms of a Failing Drive Belt
- Basket will not spin or spin is weak and clothes stay wet
- No agitation during the wash portion of the cycle
- Loud squeal at start of spin, then the cycle stops
- Rubber smell or visible belt dust under the washer
- Intermittent movement when the tub is heavily loaded
Quick Diagnosis
- Unplug the washer and tilt it forward to access the bottom. Support it securely.
- Remove the belt cover. Look for belt fraying, glazing, cracks, or slack. Check that the belt rides centered on each pulley.
- Spin the drive pulley by hand. It should rotate smoothly. If it wobbles or grinds, inspect the pulley nut and transmission splutch.
- Check the idler/tensioner spring and wheel. The wheel should spin freely and hold firm tension against the belt.
- Verify the motor pulley is tight on the shaft and the motor turns freely.
Step-by-Step Replacement: WPW10006384
- Unplug power. Turn off hot and cold water. Disconnect the hoses at the back if you need more room to tilt the washer.
- Tape the lid closed. Carefully tip the washer forward so the front rests on a pad or thick towel.
- Remove the screws holding the lower belt cover and set the cover aside.
- Remove the old belt. Pull the belt toward you while slowly turning the large drive pulley to walk the belt off the pulleys.
- Inspect components. Clean belt dust. Check the idler wheel, spring, and both pulleys for wear. Replace worn parts now.
- Install the new belt. Loop the belt over the motor pulley first. Route it around the idler/tensioner and then onto the drive pulley. Rotate the drive pulley by hand to seat the belt fully in the grooves.
- Confirm proper routing and tension. The belt should deflect slightly with finger pressure but remain snug. Refit the cover and tighten the screws.
- Return the washer to an upright position, remove the lid tape, reconnect the hoses, and turn on the water.
- Plug the washer in and run a short wash or rinse and spin test. Listen for smooth acceleration with no squeal and verify full-speed spin.
After Installation Checks
- Verify the washer is level front to back and side to side to reduce belt stress.
- Run a medium load and confirm the basket agitates and reaches full spin speed.
- If the belt walks off or squeals, recheck pulley alignment, idler tension, and that the belt is fully seated in each groove.
When the Belt Is Not the Fix
If you still have no spin or agitation after installing a new belt, consider a faulty lid lock, control board, motor capacitor, or a seized transmission.
FAQ
How long should a washer drive belt last?
Belt life depends on usage and loading habits. Heavy loads, off-balance operation, and misaligned pulleys shorten life. Many belts last five years or more in normal use.
Do I need to replace the idler wheel with the belt?
Inspect it closely. If the wheel is noisy, wobbly, or the spring is weak, replace it with the belt to prevent early belt wear.
Can a bad drain cause no spin?
Yes. Some control systems will not advance to high-speed spin if water is not leaving the tub quickly. Clear the pump filter and drain path if spin fails with water still present.
Professional Service
Prefer a guaranteed repair with OEM parts and testing? Book our washer repair service. You can also browse all available appliance repair services if you are troubleshooting multiple units.
Need help today? Book washer repair or call 866-415-3937. We service Toronto, the GTA, and nearby areas with courteous, professional support.
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