Any parts places/manufacturers to avoid?

[whirlpool70]

Hi, new here. Fan of appliances which last a looong time (my newest is a 2002 refrigerator). I have a 1985 Kenmore Series 70 electric dryer, model 110.86572120 serial M52701956. which came with my house when I bought it in 1990. It's been great over the years, requiring only a couple of minor repairs. Now the drum has stopped turning (I can hear motor, heats still works) and according to all the info I've googled and a friend who Knows About These Things, it most likely needs a new belt. As I'm now retired and have lots of time and love to tinker (have fixed a fair number of computers, but never an appliance before), I'm planning to try to fix it myself. As long as I'm taking it apart will check other things like rollers, and clean everything I can. Thank you, www and youtube.

In the meanwhile, I'll be using a classic outdoor umbrella clothes rack, which is on its way, can't get any more vintage than that! (Ok, it's new, but vintage style). Currently have clotheslines strung across my yard between house and garage, but need to keep them high out of reach of dogs and the plentiful urban wildlife around here, so royal pain to either loosen or drag out ladder. Would be entertaining to see a "I just saw a coyote dragging a sheet down the street" post on Nextdoor, though.

I see there are a *lot* of parts available for my dryer, yay. Are there any suppliers/manufacturers/brands you would stay away from, or recommend? Thanks!

 

[repairguy]

I recommend using only Whirlpool FSP genuine parts. They may cost more but they are worth it. If the rollers aren’t making any noise just lubricate them with a small amount of turbine oil. Sounds like you need a new belt.

 

[DADoES]

 
Belt P/N is the so-very-common 341241.  Check the tension/idler pulley.  Don't order parts until you've checked everything.

PartsDr has long been my go-to source, unless eBay sellers are offering confirmed FSP item(s) at a price+shipping+tax that totals better.