Where Does the Belt Go on a Kenmore 400 Washer?

Safety First

• Repairing your Kenmore 400 washer yourself can save you money, but the money saved just isn't worth it if you are unable to perform those repairs safely. Take all of the necessary safety precautions to keep your do-it-yourself repairs injury-free. Kenmore 400 washers are powered by 220 volts of electricity; unplug the appliance from the grounded electrical outlet to avoid serious injury or death. It's also a good idea to wear work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges inside the appliance.

Belt Access

• Turn off the hot and cold water supply valves before disassembling your Kenmore 400 washer. The replacement belt goes onto a series of pulleys inside the appliance. To access these pulleys, disconnect the hoses from the back of the machine, lay the washer on its front panel, and remove the hex-head screws securing the rear service panel. Loosen the nut on the motor mounting bracket and push the motor to the left. If the old belt is still on the pulley system, remove it now.

Belt Replacement

• There are three support braces attached to the transmission gearcase that must be removed to install the new belt. Remove the two pump mounting bolts as well, but do not disconnect the pump hoses. Lift the spin coil plunger with your left hand and use your right hand to rotate the large drive pulley on the right side of the gearcase. There are three mounting bolts on the gearcase; find and remove the bolt with the spacer. Loosen the remaining gearcase bolts seven turns. Now you can install the new belt by hooking it onto the motor, spin, pump and drive pulleys. Reverse the process to reassemble your Kenmore 400 washer.

Warranty Information

• Many Kenmore washers come with a warranty that covers the replacement of select parts for a certain period of time. Performing an unauthorized self-repair, such as replacing the belt, may void the warranty on the washer. Consult your warranty agreement for additional information. You can also contact Kenmore customer service to request written permission to perform the belt replacement. If you are unable to obtain repair permission and wish to keep your appliance under warranty, have the belt replaced by a Kenmore authorized professional.