I've had exactly the same problem with this model and nearly traded it in as it was getting so noisy. However - it can be fixed! You need some general purpose grease from Halfors etc and some WD-40 and a philps screwdriver. Just follow these steps to get the front panel off the dryer:
Instructions to lubricate the pulley wheels on the Hoover HNV380 dryer
1. Disconnect from the mains
2. Unscrew screws at the top of the rear of the dryer which allows the top panel of the dryer to slide backwards out.
3. To take off the front of the dryer, unscrew the screws at the top of the inside front panel, next lay the dryer onto it’s back and open the dryer’s door– there are 4 screws on one side and two on the other – leave the outer 2 screws on the side that has 4 screws which keep the door on and unscrew 2 inner screws and the two screws on the other side. Then finally there are 3 more screws on the under panel to unscrew. This allows the front panel to be moved enough to see inside the dryer.
4. Check the belt that wraps around the drum is ok and centrally in position.
5. Under the drum the belt wraps around the spindle of the motor and is guided by the 2 pulley wheels. These wheels are probably the main culprit of the noise and can sometimes be reproduced by pulling at the belt through the wheels. Put plenty of grease around the pulleys and keep turning the belt to ensure that the grease gets into every bit of the wheels.
6. Then spray WD-40 around the pulleys for good measure and also into the motor and spindle. Make sure there are no more squeaks when you turn the drum by pulling at the belt trough the pulley wheels.
7. Re-assemble the dryer by going back trough the steps in reverse.
8. Just to be certain once the dryer is re-assembled undo the silver cover on the back of the dryer and spay more WD-40 around the plastic fan and into the motor through the fan.
I reckon that this should last for a good 12 months or more before starting to squeek again - so far it's been 2 months and sounds as good as new Good Luck
TheOsteopath, June 2009
