GE Washer - Squealing and burning rubber smell

[VoteCaligulaOrDie]

I have a General Electric washer (model# WWA5600GALAD) that squeals very loudly during the spin cycle and last night during a wash produced a faint burning rubber smell. I don't know if this is the first time it has produced the smell or if I had just not noticed it before but I looked into it online and these things seemed consistent w/ a loose belt. So I took off the back panel and found the belt, and it will spin the washer, but it is obvious that there isn't enough friction for the pulley to be spun at the same speed as the belt and when I let go of the belt after moving it, I can see the belt move back a bit instead of staying where I left it. From what I've read this seems to be a loose belt, but this is my first attempt to try to fix a major home appliance so I dunno, it may very well be something else.

What do y'all think? If it is the belt, then is it crucial that I replace it? Besides the annoying noise and smell is there any problems that will likely emerge from having a loose belt? If so, is the installation of the belt complicated enough to warrant hiring a repairman or can a non-professional do it?

Thanks for your help.

[Tim and Steph]

Nah, a non-pro can easily do it. Your wash won't get particularly clean if the belt isn't tight, and if it's slipping now, it's probably cracked and or glazed, and it'll only get worse. The replacement belt is generally available at anyplace that sells belts. Hardware stores, auto parts stores, or worst case, wherever you got the washer. Get the old one off, and bring it with you. Total repair time of about 10 minutes.

[Appliance Repair Aid]

Hi,

Some belt changing info that may help....

jeff. Appliance Repair Aid

[Red Neckerson]

That always happens when me and the old lady go at it in the laundry room. A LOT of squealin' and burnin' rubbers!!!