dryerrepair
I need to replace the drum support rollers on a Maytag Centennial MGDC700VW0 dryer, but first I just need to get the cabinet open. Anyone know how to do this?
This dryer has a toe panel, which may provide all the access I will need. Is that simply held in place with clips? I can see it has little hooks holding it in place at the bottom. I tried pulling on it, but I was hesitant to really pull hard.
If anyone else has this problem, don't try to take the dryer apart!
I found it's much easier - stick your head in the dryer, and get a good look at the Outlet Grill (Bulkhead Part #32). (If the hyperlink breaks, the Outlet Grill is the part that holds the lint filter). Lint covers up recessed screws on the grill that you need to remove.
Once you get the Outlet Grill off, you have plenty of space to get into the lint duct and clear it out.
It's difficult to say without actually standing in front of it and observing the noise, but I'm going to guess you have some shot bearings somewhere. It's easier to point to them in an image to suggest where they may be descriptively:
To the left you have casters to keep the dryer on course. Applying some Teflon (or silicone) may cure it. To the right, the motor - and the sound you're hearing may mean that it is dying. That's not something you can really service beyond replacing it.
It could also simply be the belt that's attached to the motor. The same 'belt dressing' that you can buy in an auto parts store to cure a fan noise in your car will likely show (or eliminate) the belt as the culprit. It is probably quite old if it hasn't been replaced since being purchased. The inside of a dryer can get quite humid, so those belts can last for a really long time.
So check lube or 'dress' anything that helps the dryer spin, except the motor, first. If that fails, then look into getting a replacement motor (or new dryer, possibly). Rule out anything that has steel bearings first, and the belt.
Best Answer
I believe you will find two screws holding the top on located at the backside of the dryer. With those screws removed the top will come off. With the top removed the front panel retaining screws will be visible. You may have to remove the kick/toe panel to gain access to the lowest front panel screws. I would suggest that the drum drive belt be changed at the same time while it is all apart.