GE Dryer Repair (Model GTD42EASJ2WW) – Akron, OH

A GE dryer in Akron was heating up but the drum wouldn’t turn — a classic symptom that pointed us straight to the drive belt. When we opened up this GTD42EASJ2WW, we found the belt had snapped completely, leaving the drum sitting idle while the heating element worked normally.

The Problem

The customer reported their dryer was heating up but the drum wasn’t rotating at all. Clothes were getting warm but not tumbling, which meant they weren’t drying properly. This is one of the most common dryer failures we see on GE units from this era.

Diagnosis

Opening the dryer cabinet revealed a broken drive belt that had snapped and fallen to the bottom of the unit. The belt connects the motor pulley to the drum, and when it breaks, the drum loses all rotation while other components like the heating element continue working. On this model, the belt also operates the blower wheel, so airflow was reduced as well.

The Repair

• Parts replaced: WE03X29897 — drive belt
• Work performed: Removed cabinet, installed new belt around motor pulley and drum, reassembled unit
• Result: Drum rotates properly, full airflow restored, normal drying cycle verified

Is It Worth Repairing?

This GTD42EASJ2WW is a solid mid-range GE model that’s worth repairing when the issue is a simple belt replacement. These units typically last 12-15 years with proper maintenance, and a belt failure is normal wear rather than a sign of deeper problems. The repair extends the dryer’s useful life significantly.

Maintenance Tips for GE Dryers

• Clean the lint screen after every load — clogged screens force the motor to work harder and can accelerate belt wear
• Check your outdoor vent annually for blockages, especially important in Akron’s climate where ice can form in winter
• Listen for squealing or thumping sounds during operation — early warning signs that the belt may be stretching or wearing

Appliance Repair in Akron, OH

Akron is in Summit County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Green, Uniontown, and Barberton. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Summit County and surrounding areas.