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Crosley Dryer has a burning smell

If your Crosley dryer smells like burning, don’t ignore it. The most common cause is excessive lint trapped in the lint screen or venting, which can overheat and scorch when air flow is restricted, so start by unplugging the dryer, shutting off the gas if applicable, and cleaning the lint trap and vent. A stretched, worn or frayed drive belt that’s slipping is the next most likely culprit and will give off a hot, rubbery odor; check that the drum and idler pulley turn freely. Less likely but still possible is a shorted main control board, which can show visible burn marks and should be replaced if damaged. Some models also use a blower belt, or rely on the idler pulley or idler assembly for proper tension; a seized blower or bad pulley will let belts slip and overheat. If you need parts, enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer and get step-by-step repair guidance.

01 - Crosley Dryer Lint Filter

Excessive lint build-up in the dryer can be a fire hazard. The element or burner can cause the lint to catch on fire. It is recommened to clean out the dryer and dryer venting at least once a year.
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02 - Crosley Dryer Drive Belt

A drive belt that is stretched, worn or frayed can slip producing a burning smell. If the belt is damaged also check that the drum and idler pulley turn freely.
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03 - Crosley Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. The board itself can become shorted and produce a burning smell. You should inspect the board for any burn marks or a shorted components and replace if necessary.
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04 - Crosley Dryer Blower Belt

Some dryer models use a belt to run the blower. If the blower gets stuck or the blower belt is worn, loose and slipping, it can produce a burning smell. Confirm the blower turns freely and replace the belt if needed.
Highly Likely

05 - Crosley Dryer Idler Pulley

The idler pulley keeps tension on the belt to prevent it from slipping. If the idler wheel is damaged or stops turning, the belt can slip on the drive pulley, producing a burning smell. If your idler pulley is damaged or doesn't turn, you should replace it. Replacing the drive belt is also recommended.
Highly Likely

06 - Crosley Dryer Idler Assembly

The idler pulley assembly keeps tension on the belt to prevent it from slipping. If the idler wheel is damaged or stops turning, the belt can slip on the drive pulley, producing a burning smell. If your idler pulley assembly is damaged or doesn't turn, you should replace it. Replacing the drive belt is also recommended.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer smell like it's burning?
My dryer smells like something's burning when the drum turns. What should I check?
Dryer making grinding noise and smells hot — could it be the idler pulley or blower?
Can the main control board cause a burning smell?
How do I enter my dryer model or part number to get the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com?

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