I had my dryer apart due to the squealing, cleaned it thoroughly and lightly lubricated the drum bearing. It seems the drum is still riding on the front drum slides and making the high pitched squealing noise. Would the problem most likely be the drum bearing being worn allowing the drum to dip at the front so that it rides on the slides? If so would you recommend a whole new drum shaft and bearing kit # WE25X205 or would I just need the bearing, part # AP2042531. Thanks in advance.
The two part numbers you gave appear to be the same thing.
Whether to replace the bearing or shaft and bearing is a call only you can make. Depends on the wear of the unit.
As far as I know the drum should ride on the front slides.
Do not think the plastic rear bearing could support the drum especially when loaded with clothes.
There is a slide kit AP2044374, and it looks like it includes oil to lube the slides/felts. If they are worn they should be replaced. Check in this area to see if the drum is rubbing on the frame.
http://www.applianceaid.com/dryertip2.html
Other possible squeal sources would be the motor bearings and more common the idler wheel.
I will order the slides. A friend told me the drum wasn’t to rest on the slides but your replay makes a lot more sense.