Dexter Dryer Repair Guide
How to Change a Dexter Stack Dryer Trunnion
A worn trunnion can contribute to scraping noises, vibration, excessive drum movement, and alignment problems in a Dexter commercial dryer.
This repair guide explains what a Dexter dryer trunnion does, common signs of trunnion or drum-support wear, what should be inspected before replacement, and what the replacement process typically involves.
Disconnect electrical power, shut off the gas supply when applicable, and follow proper lockout/tagout procedures before opening or servicing the dryer. Commercial dryer repairs should be performed by qualified service personnel using the applicable manufacturer service information.
Video Demonstration
Watch the video below for a visual demonstration of a Dexter stack dryer trunnion replacement.
The embedded video is provided through YouTube as a general visual reference and remains subject to the rights of its respective owner. The written guide on this page was independently prepared by 123 Laundry Solutions for educational and informational purposes. Dexter dryer configurations, trunnion assemblies, drum-support components, mounting points, and service procedures can vary by model and serial number. Always refer to the applicable manufacturer service information and safety procedures for your specific machine. Trunnion replacement and related internal dryer repairs should be performed by qualified service personnel.
What Is a Dryer Trunnion?
The trunnion is part of the dryer drum-support system and helps support the tumbler so it can rotate properly during operation.
When the trunnion or related support components become excessively worn, the drum may develop abnormal movement, alignment problems, noise, or vibration.
Related components can include:
Because several of these components work together, symptoms that appear to involve the trunnion may sometimes originate elsewhere in the drum-support or drive system.
Signs Your Dexter Dryer Trunnion May Need Attention
Possible signs of trunnion or drum-support wear include:
- Scraping or grinding noises
- Excessive drum movement
- Unusual vibration during operation
- Uneven drum rotation
- Visible trunnion wear
- Wear on nearby drum-support components
These symptoms do not automatically mean the trunnion needs replacement. Similar symptoms may also be caused by worn rollers, bearings, belts, idler pulleys, alignment problems, or other drum-support components. The complete support system should be inspected before parts are replaced.
When Should a Dexter Dryer Trunnion Be Replaced?
Trunnion replacement may be appropriate when inspection confirms excessive wear, damage, or another condition that prevents the drum-support system from operating as intended.
Before replacing the trunnion, a qualified technician should also determine whether related components contributed to the problem.
Replacing a trunnion without identifying another underlying drum-support or alignment issue may result in continued abnormal operation or additional repairs.
Before Dryer Service
Before internal service is performed, the dryer should be properly prepared according to the applicable manufacturer service information and facility safety procedures.
Important safety preparations include:
- Disconnect electrical power
- Shut off the gas supply when applicable
- Allow the dryer to cool completely
- Follow applicable lockout/tagout procedures
- Confirm the dryer model and serial number
- Review the applicable Dexter service documentation
Commercial dryers contain electrical, gas, heating, and moving mechanical components. Internal service should be performed by qualified service personnel using the appropriate service and safety information for the specific machine.
Dexter Trunnion Replacement: Step-by-Step Overview
The exact repair procedure can vary by Dexter dryer model and configuration.
The following provides a general step-by-step overview of the major stages a qualified service technician may perform during trunnion replacement. It is not a substitute for Dexter’s model-specific service procedure.
Access the Drum and Support System
A qualified technician accesses the appropriate service areas needed to inspect the drum, trunnion, and related support components.
Panel locations, fasteners, guards, and access requirements can differ between Dexter dryer models.
Prepare the Drum for Service
Depending on the dryer configuration, the drum may need to be properly supported and removed or repositioned to provide access to the trunnion assembly.
Because the tumbler is a substantial mechanical component, the applicable manufacturer procedure should be followed when it must be supported or removed.
Inspect the Drum-Support System
With the necessary components accessible, the technician can inspect the surrounding drum-support and drive system for wear, damage, or abnormal conditions.
Components that may warrant inspection include:
- Drum rollers
- Bearings
- Drive belt
- Shaft
- Mounting hardware
- Support brackets
- Related drum-support components
Identifying worn related components during the same service may help reduce repeat repairs and unexpected downtime.
Replace the Trunnion
If inspection confirms that replacement is necessary, the correct trunnion is installed and positioned according to the applicable Dexter specifications for the specific dryer model.
Proper part identification is important because trunnion assemblies and mounting configurations can differ between machines.
Use the dryer model and serial number when identifying replacement parts.
Reassemble the Dryer
After the trunnion service is completed, the drum, drive components, service panels, guards, and other removed components are returned to their proper positions according to the applicable service procedure.
The technician can also verify the condition and positioning of related drive and support components before the machine is returned to operation.
Verify Dryer Operation
After proper reassembly, qualified personnel can verify normal dryer operation.
Typical checks may include:
- Smooth drum rotation
- Normal operating sound
- No excessive vibration
- Proper drum alignment
- Normal belt tracking
- Proper heating and overall dryer operation
Any abnormal noise, movement, rubbing, vibration, or other unusual condition should be investigated before the dryer is returned to regular service.
What Can Cause Trunnion or Drum-Support Wear?
Several operating conditions can contribute to wear within a commercial dryer’s drum-support system.
Frequent Commercial Use
Commercial dryers can operate through many cycles each day. Over time, repeated drum rotation naturally contributes to wear on supporting components.
Worn Related Components
Bearings, rollers, shafts, or other support components that are excessively worn may affect how the drum rotates.
Drum Alignment Problems
Abnormal drum positioning or alignment can contribute to uneven movement and wear within the support system.
Drive-System Problems
Problems involving the belt, pulley, or other drive components may affect normal drum movement and should be considered during diagnosis.
Because these components work together, inspecting the complete drum-support and drive system is preferable to assuming that one component is responsible for every symptom.
Adjustment or Replacement?
Not every abnormal drum condition necessarily requires a new trunnion.
A qualified technician should evaluate the trunnion and related components to determine whether the condition involves:
- Normal wear
- Excessive trunnion wear
- Bearing or roller wear
- Alignment problems
- Loose or damaged mounting components
- Another drum-support or drive-system problem
If a component is physically damaged or excessively worn, replacement may be more appropriate than attempting repeated adjustments.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Routine inspection may help identify drum-support problems before they result in unexpected dryer downtime.
Good maintenance practices include:
- Listen for new scraping, grinding, or rubbing noises
- Investigate unusual drum movement or vibration
- Inspect drive belts during scheduled maintenance
- Check accessible drum-support components for wear
- Keep lint accumulation under control
- Address abnormal drum resistance or alignment problems promptly
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule
Maintenance requirements can vary based on dryer model, usage, installation, and operating conditions.
Need Dexter Replacement Parts?
123 Laundry Solutions supplies OEM and replacement parts for many Dexter commercial dryers.
Available parts may include:
If you’re unsure which replacement part fits your Dexter dryer, have the model and serial number ready so compatibility can be confirmed before ordering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Dexter dryer trunnion do?
The trunnion is part of the drum-support system and helps support the tumbler so it can rotate properly during dryer operation.
What are common signs of trunnion wear?
Possible signs include scraping or grinding noises, unusual vibration, excessive drum movement, uneven rotation, or visible wear around the trunnion and related support components. These symptoms can also have other causes, so the complete drum-support system should be inspected.
Can a worn trunnion affect other dryer components?
Potentially. Excessive trunnion or drum-support wear may contribute to abnormal drum movement and place additional stress on related support and drive components. If abnormal movement, scraping, or vibration is present, the complete drum-support system should be inspected.
Does unusual drum movement always mean the trunnion is bad?
No. Bearings, rollers, belts, pulleys, alignment problems, and other drum-support components can produce similar symptoms. Proper diagnosis is recommended before replacing parts.
Can I replace a Dexter dryer trunnion myself?
Trunnion replacement may require internal dryer access and handling of the drum and related mechanical components. Commercial dryers can also contain electrical, gas, and heating systems. The repair should follow Dexter’s model-specific service information and be performed by qualified service personnel.
How do I find the correct Dexter trunnion?
Use the dryer’s model and serial number when identifying replacement parts. Component designs and mounting configurations can vary between Dexter dryer models.
Need Help Finding the Right Dexter Dryer Parts?
Whether you need a trunnion, drum roller, bearing, belt, or another Dexter dryer component, 123 Laundry Solutions can help identify compatible replacement parts using your dryer model and serial number.