How to Replace 349241T Rear Drum Support Roller Kit on Whirlpool & Maytag Dryers — Step-by-Step

Your Whirlpool dryer started making that grinding noise three weeks ago. You ignored it. Now it sounds like you're tumbling rocks instead of towels, and the drum barely spins. That's classic worn drum support rollers — and if you caught it early, you're lucky. Let me show you how to swap out those 349241T rear drum support rollers before they damage your dryer drum.

What You Need Before Starting

• 349241T Rear Drum Support Roller Kit (replace both sides at once)
• 1/4" nut driver or socket set
• Flathead screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Work gloves

Repair Time: 30-45 minutes

Difficulty: Moderate

Safety First

Unplug your dryer completely. Not just the drum — pull the plug from the wall. If you've got a gas dryer, shut off the gas supply valve too. These rollers support a heavy drum, and you don't want any surprises while you're working inside the cabinet.

Step 1: Remove the Dryer Top and Front Panel

Slide a putty knife into the seam between the top and the cabinet, about 2-3 inches from each corner. Pop the clips and lift the top back against the wall. Now remove the screws securing the front panel — usually two inside the door opening and two under the top edge. Disconnect the door switch wires and set the panel aside.

Step 2: Lift and Support the Drum

Reach underneath and push the drum up slightly to relieve tension on the belt. You'll see the belt looped around the motor pulley and idler. Slip the belt off the motor pulley, then carefully lift the front of the drum up and forward. Prop it with a block of wood or have someone hold it — you need access to the rear.

Step 3: Remove the Worn Rollers

Look at the back panel where the drum sits. You'll spot two support rollers mounted on shafts — one on each side. Remove the tri-ring clips holding each roller in place using a flathead screwdriver. Slide the old rollers off their shafts. If they're the problem, you'll see flat spots, cracks, or black rubber residue.

Step 4: Install the New 349241T Roller Kit

Here's the critical part: replace both rollers even if only one looks bad. They wear at the same rate, and you don't want to be back here in three months. Slide each new roller onto its shaft, then secure with the tri-ring clips. Make sure they spin freely — if there's resistance, reseat them.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Lower the drum back into position. Loop the belt around the motor pulley and idler again (check your dryer's diagram if you forgot the routing). Reattach the front panel, reconnect the door switch, and replace the top. Plug it in, run a test cycle, and listen. That grinding noise? Gone.

Testing After Installation

Run your dryer empty for five minutes. Listen for smooth, quiet operation. Open it mid-cycle and spin the drum by hand — it should rotate freely with no wobble or resistance. If you still hear noise, double-check that both rollers are seated properly and the belt isn't twisted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace just one roller instead of both?

Technically yes, but don't. Both rollers wear at the same rate, and replacing only one creates an imbalance. You'll be tearing your dryer apart again in a few months when the second one fails. The 349241T kit includes both — use them.

Will worn drum rollers damage my clothes?

Absolutely. When rollers develop flat spots, the drum wobbles and can leave black marks or scuff marks on your clothes. If you're seeing mystery stains after drying, check those rollers immediately.

How do I know if it's the rollers or the belt causing the noise?

Remove the front panel and spin the drum by hand. If it makes noise without the motor running, it's the rollers. If it only makes noise when the motor's on, check the belt and idler pulley first. Rollers typically make a rumbling or thumping sound, while belts squeal or screech.