Loose Fan on a Bosch WTA 3500 Dryer

Identifying the Problem

• Over time with normal use, the fan in your Bosch dryer might come loose from its mount. When this occurs, the dryer will often vibrate, rattle and roar during a full drying cycle. Sometimes a loose fan will rub against the cabinet and make a grinding noise. Depending on how movable the fan is, its shifting could impact airflow in your dryer and eventually result in slower drying times.

Fan Location

• The fan on a Bosch WTA 3500 dryer is at the bottom of the dryer cabinet in the corner near the motor. A single screw secures the fan to its mount on the shaft of the motor.

Tightening the Fan

• Disconnect the dryer’s main power supply. Remove the top cover of the dryer by detaching the screws and sliding the cover off. Undo the two screws on the interior side of the face panel that secure the panel to the dryer; lift the panel off. Refer to the diagram in the dryer’s manual if you need help locating the fan. Tighten the screw in the center of the fan until it’s secure, using a screwdriver. If you’re uneasy about partially dissembling your dryer to tighten the fan, contact Bosch to schedule service.

Considerations

• There are a number of reasons that your Bosch dryer is vibrating and rattling, other than a loose fan, according to the company’s website. In some cases, a dryer might make a thumping noise at the start of a drying cycle. This usually stops within two to three minutes of tumbling after the drum’s suspension rollers have warmed up. A Bosch dryer also can vibrate if it’s not balanced. Bosch indicates that each leveling leg should be firmly on the floor and hold no more than 25 percent of the dryer’s total weight.