LG & Kenmore Dryer Drum Drive Motor Parts — Models & Compatibility

The 4681EL1008A drum drive motor is the workhorse behind every LG and Kenmore dryer cycle. When this motor fails, your dryer drum stops spinning entirely — clothes tumble in, the timer counts down, but nothing moves. This hub covers the direct replacement motor that fits over 100 LG and Kenmore dryer models from the DLE, DLEX, DLG, and DLGX series.

Is This the Right Part for Your Model?

Before ordering, you'll need your exact model number. On LG dryers, check inside the door frame on the left or right side — you're looking for a silver label with the model and serial number. Kenmore models have a similar tag, usually on the door opening or back panel. Match your model number against the compatibility list below. This motor replaces multiple part numbers including AP4438218, 4681EL1002A, 4681EL1006A, and PS3523290.

About This Replacement Motor

The drum drive motor connects directly to the dryer drum via a belt and pulley system. It runs continuously during the dry cycle, rotating the drum at precise speeds to tumble clothes evenly. The most common failure symptom is straightforward: the drum won't spin at all. You'll hear the blower motor running and feel warm air, but the drum stays locked in place. This happens when the motor windings burn out or the motor shaft seizes. The 4681EL1008A is a direct-fit replacement that restores full drum rotation without modifications. At $222.99, it's significantly less expensive than service calls or replacing the entire dryer.

Compatible Model Series

This motor fits LG electric (DLE/DLEX) and gas (DLG/DLGX) dryers across multiple generations. The part works in both front-loading and some stackable configurations. If your model starts with DLE2, DLE3, DLE5, DLE7, DLEX2, DLEX3, DLEX4, DLEX7, DLEX8, DLG2, DLG3, DLG5, DLGX2, DLGX3, DLGX7, or Kenmore 796 series, there's a strong chance this motor fits.

Installation Overview

Replacing the drum motor requires accessing the dryer cabinet. You'll disconnect the belt from the motor pulley, unplug the wire harness, remove mounting screws, and reverse the process with the new motor. The job involves partial disassembly of the dryer's front or rear panel depending on your model design. Proper belt tension and pulley alignment are critical for smooth operation.

Why Motors Fail

Drum motors typically fail after years of use when bearing surfaces wear down or motor windings overheat. Overloading the dryer, running it with a worn belt that slips, or operating with restricted airflow all accelerate motor wear. If you've noticed the drum slowing down before it stopped completely, that's a classic sign of motor bearing failure. Once the motor stops, replacement is the only fix — these motors aren't serviceable at the component level.