GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement

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Introduction

This guide can be used to access and replace a damaged or worn drive belt in a GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW.

Basic risks associated with this include moving parts, applying tension to a part, and razor-sharp surfaces.

Before beginning, disconnect power from the device. Wear safety gloves and eye protection throughout the repair process. Some disassembly and reassembly that involves basic use of a screwdriver is required.

What you need

Step 1 Drive Belt

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement, Drive Belt: step 1, image 1 of 1

Before beginning the repair, power off the washing machine and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
Make sure the drum is completely drained and empty before proceeding.

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Step 2

Pull the washing machine away from the wall to create enough space to remove the rear access panel.

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Step 3

Use a Phillips #2 screwdriver to remove the four 1/4-inch machine screws securing the maintenance panel.

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Step 4

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 4, image 3 of 3

Press the release tabs at the top of the maintenance access panel and wiggle the panel free.
Repeat the process on the bottom tabs and remove the maintenance access panel.

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Step 5

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3

Ensure that safety gloves, eye protection, and, preferably, a long-sleeve shirt are worn at this step. Factory welds and other parts can occasionally be razor sharp, posing a risk of injury. There is a risk of a damaged band breaking or coming loose under tension, becoming a projectile hazard.
Double-check and ensure there is no power running to the washing machine. Moving parts and electrical components can cause shock or injury if powered on.
Remove the current washing machine drive belt by gently pulling it off the drum pulley.
To make belt removal easier, slowly rotate the drum pulley counterclockwise while pulling the drive belt off the pulley.
If the drive belt is too tight to remove by hand, a flathead screwdriver can be inserted between the belt and the drum pulley to aid with removal.

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Step 6

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 6, image 3 of 3

Remove the belt from the motor pulley.
The drive belt may come off on its own after it is removed from the drum pulley.
Set the old drive belt aside.

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Step 7

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 7, image 3 of 3

Place the new drive belt, flat side facing up, partially on the drum pulley.
Take the remainder of the drive belt and loop it around the motor pulley so that the notches in the belt line up with the notches in the motor pulley.

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Step 8

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 8, image 3 of 3

Slowly rotate the drum pulley counterclockwise, holding the belt with one hand while feeding the drive belt onto the drum pulley with the other hand.
This step can be challenging and may take some trial and error.
Avoid putting your fingers or hand between the pulley and the drive belt.

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Step 9

GE Front Load Washing Machine Model GFW450SSM1WW Drive Belt Replacement: step 9, image 3 of 3

Rotate the drum pulley clockwise for at least one full rotation to ensure proper alignment of the drive belt.
After the access panel is secure, it is safe to reposition, plug in, and run the washing machine.