How to Replace Dryer Belt on Maytag PYGT244AWW?

This is not a question but rather a "How I replaced my dryer belt" on my Maytag Performa gas dryer PYGT244AWW. After opening the top of the dryer using a putty knife to release the retainers on the left and right sides of the top, I removed the front cover by removing two 1/4 inch sheet metal screws where the front panel meets the side panels on each end. Since there are no access panels on the bottom right side of the dryer I must assume the Lonely Maytag repairman has thin long arms and X-ray vision to see and reach inside and past the blower unit on the bottom right to install the belt over the motor shaft pulley and set the idler pulley on the belt. First of all one cannot see the pulleys as they are obscured so you are working in the dark not knowing what you are feeling for. After several attempts to find the pulleys, I decided to cut an access panel in the right side opposite the end of the motor to expose the pulleys. I laid out a 7 inch by 7 inch square, drilled large holes in each corner so my saber saw blade would fit in and I cut out the panel. Presto! there were the 2 pulleys easy to access. Remember to install the belt (part no. 31531589) with the ribbed side towards the drum and fit it into the ribbed motor pulley then pull the idler pulley over the smooth side of the belt. Since the dryer sits up next to the wall this open access panel cannot be seen, however one could make a metal cover and attach it with sheet metal screws for safety if exposed. Hope this helps others.

Dan Metro
May 2006