How to Replace 4681EL1008A Drum Drive Motor on LG & Kenmore Dryers — Step-by-Step

Your LG DLEX2501W starts making a grinding noise, then nothing — the drum won't spin at all. Clothes just sit there getting hot while the blower runs. That's usually your drum drive motor giving up, and on models like the DLE2251W, DLGX3361V, or Kenmore 79681362910, the 4681EL1008A motor is what keeps everything turning. Here's how to swap it yourself and save $300 on a service call.

What You Need Before Starting

Tools required:

• Phillips screwdriver
• 5/16" and 1/4" nut drivers
• Putty knife or flat blade screwdriver
• Work gloves (motor gets sharp)
• Flashlight or headlamp

Repair time: 45-60 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate — You'll need to disassemble the front panel, but the connections are straightforward.

Safety First

Unplug the dryer completely before touching anything inside. These motors run on 120V, and even with power off, capacitors can hold a charge. If you've got a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply valve too. Wear gloves — the motor housing and belt tensioner have sharp edges that'll slice your knuckles if you're not careful.

Step 1: Remove the Front Panel and Drum

Pop off the top panel by releasing the two clips at the front corners with your putty knife. Lift it up and back. Remove the screws holding the front panel (usually two at the bottom corners). Disconnect the door switch wire, then lift the front panel away. The drum will now roll forward — support it while you reach underneath to release the belt from the motor pulley and idler. Once the belt's loose, pull the drum completely out of the cabinet.

Step 2: Access the Motor Assembly

With the drum out, you'll see the motor mounted to the blower housing at the bottom front of the cabinet. It's held by three or four bolts. Before removing anything, take a photo of how the belt routes around the motor pulley and idler wheel — you'll thank yourself later.

Step 3: Disconnect and Remove the Old Motor

Unplug the wire harness from the motor (squeeze the tab and pull). The 4681EL1008A has a single connector that can't be installed backwards, so no worries there. Remove the mounting bolts using your nut driver. The motor and blower housing come off as one unit on most LG dryers. If your model has a separate blower wheel, you'll need to remove the clamp holding it to the motor shaft.

Step 4: Install the New 4681EL1008A Motor

Position the new motor assembly exactly where the old one sat. Thread in the mounting bolts hand-tight first to make sure everything lines up, then tighten them snugly — don't overtighten or you'll crack the plastic housing. Reconnect the wire harness until you hear it click. Before putting the drum back in, spin the motor pulley by hand to make sure it turns freely and the blower wheel isn't rubbing.

Step 5: Reinstall the Drum and Belt

Slide the drum back into the cabinet, making sure the rear bearing sits properly in its socket. Loop the belt around the drum first (ridged side against the drum), then stretch it around the motor pulley and under the idler wheel. The idler provides tension, so pull it toward you while hooking the belt onto the motor pulley. Give the drum a few spins — it should rotate smoothly with slight resistance from the belt.

Testing After Installation

Reattach the front panel, reconnect the door switch, and replace the top. Plug the dryer back in and run a short air-dry cycle with no clothes. Listen for unusual noises — a new motor should be nearly silent except for a faint hum. The drum should start spinning within two seconds of closing the door and pressing start. If you hear squealing, the belt's too loose or not seated properly on the drum.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this motor work on both electric and gas LG dryers?

Yes, the 4681EL1008A fits both. The drum motor is identical whether you've got a DLE (electric) or DLG (gas) model — the heating method doesn't affect the drive system. Just verify your model number in the compatibility list above.

How do I know if it's the motor or just a broken belt?

A broken belt usually happens suddenly and you'll see belt fragments inside the cabinet. If the drum won't spin but you don't see belt damage, try turning the drum by hand. If it's hard to rotate or you hear grinding, the motor bearings are shot. If the drum spins freely by hand but won't turn when powered on, the motor windings are likely burned out.

Can I reuse the old mounting bolts?

Yes, the mounting hardware transfers directly from your old motor. The 4681EL1008A uses the same bolt pattern as the original 4681EL1002A and 4681EL1006A motors it replaces. Just make sure they're not stripped or corroded — replace them if they won't tighten securely.