ruby_grant•2mo agoProlific Poster

Vent: I used to think those cheap plastic gear pullers were fine for dryer motors

For years I grabbed the $15 set from the big box store, figuring they'd work in a pinch. Then last month in a tight spot on a Maytag dryer, one snapped and the gear shot across the garage. My buddy at the parts counter said 'man, you're still using those?' and handed me his Lisle steel puller. I used it on three jobs since and it's night and day. Anyone have a favorite brand for this kind of tool that won't let you down?

3 comments

3 Comments

paul_nguyen2mo ago

Try heating the gear first to make any puller's job easier.

the_kelly2mo ago

Heating it up is a solid tip. How hot are we talking, though? I've seen people use a little heat and it does nothing, then others get it way too hot and wreck the temper of the metal. Is there a sweet spot, like a specific temperature range to aim for, or is it just a "warm to the touch" kind of thing? I worry about damaging the bearing or seal behind the gear if the heat goes too far.

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mila_mitchell1mo agoMost Upvoted

Question why people overthink this stuff so much, you know @the_kelly? It's just a gear, not a NASA rocket part. I've used a heat gun on stubborn bolts dozens of times and never once ruined a seal or bearing. Unless you're directly blasting the heat for minutes straight into a rubber seal, you'll be fine. I swear people act like a little bit of warmth is gonna vaporize the whole transmission or something. Just hit it with a propane torch for like 20 seconds, not a full on bbq session. If you're that worried, a hairdryer on high works too, takes longer but zero risk.