How would I change a drive belt on my clothes washer? I am a woman so please be precise.....thanks!?

I heard a small humming noise and there was a smell like hot electrical problem and then my washer quit without spinning and the water stayed inside. Would that be the drive belt?

Hi, I don't think you will be able to repair the problem yourself but maybe you can determine if the belt is at fault. First, unplug the electrical cord. Then, turn off both hot and cold water. The washer will need to be positioned so that you have access to the rear of the machine. If it is full of water, it will be heavy and maybe too heavy for you if empty. Do you have a friend or handyman to help you? Try to find someone. After you are able to get to the rear of the machine, the back has screws that you remove to take off the back. Remove the screws and then the back itself. Now you can see the motor and the belt. If you find the belt damaged or in shreds, then the problem is your belt. Get a new belt according to the make and model of your washer. It may go on easily or it may require tools.

If the belt looks good, you may have a component problem that will require a repairman. If you have no one to help you, it is probably best to go ahead and get a repairman to begin with, but it may cost you considerable expense. Good luck.

Some models and brands may be different. When I had to change my dryer belt, I went to the manufacturer's website and pulled up the online manual that gave step by step instructions on how to replace the belt and it gave a visual diagram, as well. Good luck.

Try here

http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/appliance/washer/repair/belt.php

Quite likely, but could be a blown motor.

If it's out of warranty, and it's broken, I'd start by unplugging it. Then, look at each panel, and see if you can figure out which one was screwed on last. Take this one off first. Probably needs a #2 phillips (plus sign) screwdriver.

If it is the belt, there's probably a couple screws that maintain the tension on the belt by holding the motor in a particular location. Loosen those, and slide the motor a bit - until you can get the belt off.

You can also do a visual / sniff test on the motor. If it looks burnt, or smells burnt, it probably is.

Remove either belt or motor, and take the suspect piece to an appliance center to have swapped.

Sears might have a manual online for a similar model (or general model) Doesn't have to be exact replica, to get the idea of how to disassemble.

Some washers might be able to access belt from underneath. Empty water and cloths, then flip it on it's back or side. Then inspect from bottom.