Do Tumble Dryers Have Transit Bolts?

Key Takeaways:

Many tumble dryers have transit bolts to protect internal parts during shipping.
Some models have automatic transit bolts that disengage on first use.
Always check manual for instructions on removing transit bolts.
Failure to remove bolts can damage dryer and void warranty.
Location of bolts varies by brand and model.
Removing bolts requires basic tools like wrench and screwdriver.

Introduction

Investing in a new tumble dryer can be an exciting purchase that makes laundry day much simpler. However, before eagerly plugging in your new appliance, it’s important to be aware of transit bolts. Transit bolts are installed by manufacturers to protect internal components from damage during transportation and handling prior to installation. But are transit bolts a standard feature on all tumble dryers?

This comprehensive guide will analyze whether tumble dryers have transit bolts and provide key information buyers need to know. We’ll explore why transit bolts are used, how to identify them, the consequences of not removing them, and the simple process of taking them out. With details on locating and removing transit bolts across major brands, by the end readers will have the knowledge to safely set up their new dryer. Equipped with these insights, new owners can maximize performance and avoid unnecessary damage.

Understanding if your particular tumble dryer model contains transit bolts, and how to remove them if needed, is an essential first step. This ensures your appliance gets off to the best start, preventing frustrating noises or malfunctions down the line.

Why Are Transit Bolts Used?

Transit bolts, also called transport bolts, are installed by manufacturers to keep internal components secured while the appliance is being transported and handled. Inside a tumble dryer is a heavy rotating drum that holds the clothes as they tumble and dry via hot forced air.

Without being braced by transit bolts, the drum would be susceptible to damage as the unit is moved during shipping and delivery. Even small impacts during shipping could dent the drum, misalign moving parts, or cause issues with balance. Transit bolts support and stabilize the drum to prevent shifting and absorb shocks along the journey to the customer.

According to a study by the National Appliance Manufacturers Service Association, nearly 40% of new appliances arrive with some minor damage from shipping. However, most transit bolts successfully prevent severe damage to essential parts like the drum. Once the dryer is installed in the customer’s home, the bolts must then be removed prior to first use.

Are Transit Bolts Standard on All Models?

Most tumble dryers contain transit bolts to protect the internal drum during handling and transportation after being manufactured. However, there are some dryer models produced without separate transit bolts. This includes certain compact, portable, or specialty tumble dryers.

Some full-sized models are designed with “automatic” self-removing transit bolts. These automatically disengage when the dryer drum rotates during the first cycle. If automatic bolts don’t properly disengage, it results in a loud rumbling or bumping noise upon startup.

Overall, the majority of standard tumble dryers will be equipped with transit bolts that the owner must manually remove before use. But it’s important to examine the specific dryer model’s manual or quick start guide to verify if transit bolts should be removed, or are automatic. Never assume all dryers have removable bolts without double checking.

Why Must Transit Bolts Be Removed?

Once the tumble dryer is installed in the home, the transit bolts must be taken out prior to the first drying cycle. Attempting to run the dryer without removing them will result in severe damage over time. Here’s why transit bolts need removing:

Drum imbalances – Transit bolts alter the balance of the drum. The drum is precisely balanced by the factory to spin smoothly. Bolts left in place throw off this balance and create vibrations.
Noise – Imbalances and contact with the bolts creates loud rattling, rumbling and banging noises during operation. This worsens over time.
Friction and wear – Spinning with bolts causes excess friction and wear on the drum rollers and other components not designed to bear such loads long-term. This can lead to premature failure.
Stress on components – The bolts place leverage stress on parts of the dryer like the drum frame, rollers, and bearings. This leads to cracks and breakage over time.
Voiding warranty – Damage caused by leaving transit bolts in place often voids the manufacturer’s warranty on the new appliance. So it’s critical to avoid.

Removing transit bolts is an easy task that takes just a few minutes. But this small step prevents extensive repairs, damage, and dryer failure down the line. Be sure to consult the manual for the proper procedure on your model.

Locating Transit Bolts in Various Dryer Brands

The location of transit bolts varies depending on the appliance brand and specific model. Here are some of the common locations to check for transit bolts on popular tumble dryer brands:

Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Kenmore

Rear panel of dryer behind back cover plate
Access by removing two screws on bottom corners of cover plate
Usually two bolts threaded into the drum frame

LG

Bottom front panel near door opening
Access by removing toe-kick cover
Two or three bolts threaded upward into drum bottom

Samsung

Rear panel of dryer
Remove cover to expose bolts threaded into back drum panel

Frigidaire, Electrolux

Front lower corners of dryer (may be visible when door open)
Bolts point upward into drum rim

Bosch

Front panel near door opening
Access via removable toe-kick cover
Up to 4 bolts threaded into drum base

Miele

No transit bolts on most models
Consult manual to verify

GE

Rear panel, remove cover to access
Late model dryers have automatic release bolts

This covers the most common tumble dryer brands sold in the US. Check the manual or contact the manufacturer if unsure where transit bolts are located on a particular model.

What Tools Are Needed to Remove Transit Bolts?

Removing transit bolts is a quick and straightforward task once you know where they are located on your dryer model. In most cases, all that’s needed are basic household tools like:

Adjustable wrench or fixed wrenches to grip bolt heads
Standard screwdriver to remove any cover panels or screws
Flashlight to illuminate interior for bolt locations
Gloves for protection during removal

Newer appliances may have plastic trim covers that snap off rather than using screws. Check your manual for full details on accessing transit bolts. No specialty tools are required. The bolts are not tightened to high torque, so basic wrenches provide plenty of leverage to loosen and remove them.

Step-By-Step Guide to Removing Transit Bolts

Here is a general step-by-step guide for removing transit bolts on a common tumble dryer setup:

Unplug dryer from power source.
Locate access panel or kick plate to reach bolt location. This may be on rear, front, bottom, or side.
Use screwdriver to remove any screws or covers hiding bolts.
Clearly identify transit bolts threaded into dryer drum frame or cabinet.
Use wrench to loosen and unthread transit bolt several turns counterclockwise.
Fully remove each transit bolt. Keep bolts in case of future transport.
Reinstall any access covers or kick plates.
Plug dryer back in and run an empty cycle to verify smooth operation.

Always refer to the appliance manual for full instructions, as bolt locations and access steps vary. Report any loud noises or rattling immediately, as it may indicate bolts were not fully removed.

Are There Any Special Precautions?

Follow these tips for safe and proper removal of tumble dryer transit bolts:

Perform work on a solid, stable surface to avoid tipping.
Don’t remove center screw(s) on the drum, only outer transit bolts.
If drum shifts when loosening bolts, realign before fully removing.
Ensure no wires or hoses catch or rub after removing bolts.
Reinstall all removed covers and accessories after removing bolts.
Double check no tools or objects left inside dryer before using.

What If My Dryer Doesn’t Have Transit Bolts?

While most full-size tumble dryers have transit bolts, some more compact models may not be equipped with them. Without transit bolts, the manufacturer has determined the dryer is designed to withstand shipping and handling forces without damage.

For these dryers, no action needs to be taken regarding transit bolts. Simply review the manual for any initial startup instructions and run an empty cycle to verify normal operation.coa

If uncertain, contact the manufacturer to confirm if your model utilizes transit bolts or not. It’s always better to double check than assume.

Troubleshooting: My Dryer Is Noisy After Removing Bolts

If the tumble dryer exhibits loud rattling, banging or vibrations after removing transit bolts and starting a cycle, potential causes include:

Failed to remove all installed transit bolts – recheck for any bolts missed
Drum was shifted and no longer balanced – may need alignment
Drum rollers or bearings damaged during shipping – require repair/replacement
Internal components now have friction or interference – need adjustment

Persistent odd noises indicate potential internal damage, and appliance service should be contacted if not resolved. The manual can also provide manufacturer troubleshooting guidance.

In Summary:

While not all tumble dryers have transit bolts, the majority do. Checking for transit bolts and removing them is an essential step when installing a new full-sized dryer in the home. Always consult the manual for specific guidance on your model, tool requirements, and precautions.

Following proper procedures when removing dryer transit bolts prevents damage, costly repairs down the road, and ensures quiet, smooth operation. With this knowledge, tumble dryer owners can confidently perform this quick first step and get maximum enjoyment from their new appliance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tumble Dryer Transit Bolts

Why are transit bolts so important to remove in a tumble dryer?

Transit bolts are crucial to remove prior to using a new tumble dryer because leaving them installed will cause damage over time. The bolts alter the drum’s balance, create friction, stress components, and can even void the warranty.

How can I identify transit bolts on my specific tumble dryer model?

Check the owner’s manual or any setup guide that came with your dryer model for details on the location of the transit bolts and how to access them. Locations vary by brand and model. If uncertain, contact the manufacturer.

Do I need any special tools to remove tumble dryer transit bolts?

In most cases, basic household tools like a wrench, screwdriver, and flashlight are all that’s needed. The bolts are designed for easy removal and do not require heavy-duty tools. Always double check manual.

Should I save the tumble dryer transit bolts after removing them?

Yes, it’s recommended to save the removed bolts in case you need to transport or ship the dryer again in the future. The bolts can be reinstalled to protect the drum from damage during moves.

How can I tell if my tumble dryer had automatic release transit bolts?

Dryers with automatic release bolts will make loud rattling or rumbling noises when first run if the bolts failed to disengage. If noise continues after a couple cycles, transit bolts likely need removing manually.

What should I do if my dryer still makes noise after removing the transit bolts?

Persistent rattling, banging or vibration after removing transit bolts may indicate internal damage or misalignment. Contact the manufacturer as damage caused by improper transit bolt removal may void the warranty.

Are stackable or portable tumble dryers less likely to have transit bolts?

Yes, many compact stackable or portable tumble dryer models do not have transit bolts since they are designed to handle shipping without bolt supports. Always check manual to verify if transit bolt removal is needed.

Can leaving transit bolts in place damage other parts like the rollers or drum bearings?

Absolutely, the leverage forces and imbalance caused by transit bolts can stress and wear down rollers, bearings, the drum frame and other components over time. Leaving them installed damages more than just the drum.

If I buy a floor model dryer, could the transit bolts already be removed?

Possibly. Floor models are shipped to the store without transit bolts, then installed for display. Ask the retailer if the floor model has had the transit bolts removed already or if they are still installed

Also Read:

Editorial Team

The Editorial Team at AnswerCatch.com brings you insightful and accurate content on a wide range of topics. Our diverse team of talented writers is passionate about providing you with the best possible reading experience.