The difference is that a dryer cord has two straight prongs and two bent ones, while a range cord has three straight prongs and one bent one. A range cord (made for a cooking range) looks very similar and also has four prongs in about the same locations. First, make sure that you have the right new cord.Take a photo with your phone (in today's world that might be the best!).Tape the wire with a label with 'B,' 'W,' and 'R' written on it.Take note of where this strap is screwed to the frame one of the wires on the new cord will go there. Remove this strap or wire, and once more, save it for possible use in years to come. There will be a metal strap or wire fastened to the place where the white wire was, attaching to the frame of the dryer.Pull the old cable out through the connector and save it in case you ever move into a home with a three-hole socket. Unscrew the fasteners holding the wire to the terminal board and remove the wires.If the old wires are colored, note where the white wire ends. Loosen any visible screws on this connector and remove the plate that covers the wire terminations. The cord should enter the dryer through some kind of connector to prevent strain on the screws where the wire terminates.Pull the dryer out until you can easily work on the back.

If the dryer is unplugged, there is no need to check for voltage at the dryer, although a non-contact voltage detector will accomplish this if you want to be extra safe. If its plug doesn't fit the socket, this step shouldn't be necessary, but of course, you should never attempt to work on an appliance that is plugged in.

Dryer plug adapter