Which bearing to choose for a washing machine?

Unusual behavior of the washing machine during operation indicates its malfunction. If your home helper starts creaking, making noise, rattling, or even “dancing” on the floor during washing and spinning, most likely the problem lies in a broken bearing assembly. It is necessary to respond to such a malfunction without delay. To fix it, first of all, you need to find out what bearings are on the washing machine. Our article will help you understand this.

How does a bearing unit work?

This important mechanism is the connecting link between the drum and the pulley of any automatic machine, which provides the former with rotation during the washing process. Therefore, the functioning of the device itself depends on its correct operation. In most SMAs, bearings are installed in a special cross, which is mounted on the drum, or rather on its rear wall.

The subassembly itself is represented by two types of elements:

Internal. More powerful (thicker and larger in diameter), since it takes on a larger load. It is located near the drum itself.
External. Located at the other end of the shaft. It plays a secondary role, therefore it is significantly smaller in size than its “colleague”.

In some washing machines you can see double-row mono bearings. They consist of two rows of balls for rotating the shaft, and not one, as is usually the case.

In this case, instead of two single-row elements, one double-row is used.

An important element in the operation of the mechanism is the oil seal (rubber sealing ring), which tightly covers the shaft and prevents water from leaking through it.

If the seal is worn out, it will definitely leak water from the tank, therefore, failure of the mechanism cannot be avoided. If the oil seal is intact, then when replacing the unit it must be lubricated. You can find out which lubricant is best to use for this from the video below or in one of our articles.

Bearings and oil seal - repair kit for washing machine Vestel 6203, 6204, 254710/11.5

Set of 2 bearings and oil seal for Vestel washing machine

bearings SKF 6203 and SKF 6204

stuffing box 25*47*10/11,5

This kit is suitable for washing machine Vestel WM634T WM834T AWM634 AWM834S WM4080S OWM840S WM1040TS and others

Delivery of spare parts in St. Petersburg and shipping throughout Russia by mail or TC CDEK can be arranged on our website through the shopping cart.

Delivery in St. Petersburg

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You can choose a time interval for delivery of your order that is convenient for you - most often delivery of spare parts in St. Petersburg is possible on any day, including today.

Delivery price in St. Petersburg for cargo (0-11 kg) 390 rubles

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Delivery throughout Russia - Sending spare parts throughout Russia

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The price and delivery time of TC CDEK are also displayed in the cart when placing an order!

What types of bearings are there?

There are many types of bearing elements, which are classified according to a variety of criteria. In automatic machines, two types are used, based on the design features:

Metal. They are used more often because they are relatively inexpensive.
Plastic dustproof. They are considered the best when compared with metal ones, since they have a two-layer structure (a metal base, which is additionally covered with a protective layer of plastic).

The type of part can be easily recognized by the marking (located on its outer surface): ZZ means metal, 2RS means plastic.

In addition, the bearing elements differ in width, as well as in the diameter of the circle (internal and external). This mandatory condition must be taken into account when selecting a new spare part.

The correspondence of their types and sizes can be seen in the photo below, where d denotes the diameter of the internal hole, D the external hole, and h is the width.

Signs of faulty bearings in Vestel washing machines and their causes

How do you know when a bearing in a washing machine needs to be replaced? It makes noise, creaks, knocks while washing clothes. These unpleasant sounds can get worse over time. And if you don’t replace the damaged part in time, it will be more difficult to do so later. In addition, the knocking can eventually turn into an unbearable noise. If the bearing is not replaced in time, the inevitable consequences can completely damage the washing machine. In this case, repairs will cost much more. The best option if a malfunction is detected is to immediately replace the bearing.

Installing non-original spare parts on Vestel washing machines is strictly not recommended. The most minor drawback of such spare parts is a significantly shorter service life. To purchase original spare parts for Vestel washing machines, you can contact us by phone. Our service center is the official representative of the Vestel brand. We deliver spare parts to all regions of our country.

Bearings can fail when using the washing machine for a long time. They also break due to water ingress. Water leakage causes corrosion, which damages the part. Leaks occur due to the fault of the seal. It has a limited shelf life. And it often begins to leak fluid after 5-7 years of operation.

Sequence of actions when replacing bearings of a Vestel washing machine

To change the bearings of a Vestel washing machine, perform the following operations:

unscrew the two fastening bolts of the top cover and remove it, moving it towards the rear panel;
remove the dispenser tray;
remove the control panel;
remove the clamp securing the hatch cuff;
remove the cuff from the front of the drum and tuck it inside the machine;
remove the front and back parts of the drum one by one;
remove the tank;
unscrew the fastening bolt and remove the pulley;
using a hammer and a blunt chisel, carefully knock the bearing out of the bushing;
install a new bearing and perform all the above steps in reverse order.

Features of bearing replacement

It is very important when replacing a bearing to carefully inspect the condition of the crosspiece, tank shaft and bearing seat. Operating the machine on a faulty bearing could cause damage to these parts. Without eliminating such damage, there is no point in installing a new bearing.

Performing the described operations independently and in a place not suitable for this purpose does not ensure the required level of quality of the work performed.

Vestel service center specialists carry out repairs of any complexity in the optimal time. By calling (095) 766-12-13, you can call a specialist to your home.

The bearing system is responsible for the soft and uniform rotation of the drum. And a knock, vibration and rumble that suddenly appeared during the spin cycle clearly indicate the need to replace the bearing on the washing machine. Vestel slot machines are no exception - here the “symptoms” and “treatment” of problematic spinning are no different from the standard scheme. The main thing is to prepare everything you need and act according to the instructions. All algorithms and recommendations are given in the article.

Rating of the best

A hit parade of the most reliable bearings, collected from reviews from experts (the question was asked directly), as well as from forum ratings and based on our voting.

KOYO

is a Japanese manufacturer collaborating with Toyota. Some of the best bearings for industrial laundries, expensive high-speed models from Kuppersbusch, Haier, Electrolux, Miele, Bosch, AEG. Very precise assembly, durability (although they love lubrication), but also one of the most expensive in price.

SKF

is a Swedish company, an iconic manufacturer of bearings for all household appliances, cars, equipment and machine tools. Factories are located all over the world. For some reason, bearings from France are quoted in Russia, although Italy, Bulgaria or even China are no worse. As for the “out of the box” or “out of paper” criteria, the box is still preferable, there is less chance of running into a fake.

Timken

- American brand. A special technology with a deep groove, in terms of service life - the longest possible, with a living seal it will work for 15 years. The downside is that there are often fakes.

- Polish consumer goods. There are also products made in China. In general, good and affordable products, but sometimes there are lots with defects. Somewhere there are scratches on the outer side of the clip, somewhere there are defects in the plastic plugs. CXs are also considered to be noisier.

NSK

- a Japanese brand, both original and licensed from Poland are supplied to Russia. They have very good protection from moisture and small abrasives (especially models with a rubber boot), high-quality steel. There is an opinion that they last a long time, but do not withstand overloads and vibrations very well.

FBJ

– according to the official version, the bearings are manufactured under a Japanese license, but in reality this is an international manufacturer from Asian countries. China, Singapore, Taiwan and so on. While FBJs do not run very well in cars, they last a long time in washing machines, especially with rubber-plastic protective inserts.

J.V.B.

- Chinese manufacturer. It’s hard to say anything special, you just sometimes come across them in markets and stores. Acceptable.

CRAFT

– Chinese-Lithuanian origin. One of the best ratios between price and quality. Complies with all GOST standards, cannot be counterfeited, and is cheap. There are workshops that fully work with these bearings, and the warranty periods are met. The quality sometimes fluctuates, but overall it’s not bad.

VBF (VBF)

– Russian bearings, Vologda plant. There are different opinions among owners of automatic washing machines and craftsmen. Basically, everyone notes the increased level of durability in recent years.

EBI

– some unscrupulous companies are positioned as Italian, but in reality they are China.

There are also very expensive ceramic bearings that are generally not susceptible to corrosion and deposits from alkaline water. They are sold by the Chinese. Price – 1500-3500 rubles. It is difficult to judge how reliable they are, as mass use has not yet been observed in Russia.

Very often, bearings for a washing machine come in a package from Ariston, Indesit, Ariston, Bosch and so on in the form of prefabricated “hodgepodges”, which can include both famous manufacturers and Chinese Noname. Many buyers are mistaken when they think that if the SMA brand is written on the package, then it is original.

NSK

NSK
The NSK brand was founded in 1916. Since the 50s of the twentieth century, the manufacturer began to expand its range with new and other solutions. Linear technology products were also added to the list of rolling bearings, followed by automotive components and steering systems.

Today, the NSK brand offer is very extensive, and the company itself is very popular all over the world. The advantages of NSK solutions include, first of all, high quality, reliability and accuracy.

Required Tools

You won’t be able to get to the bearing without special tools, because you first need to disassemble the washing machine. In order not to damage the spare parts, it will not be possible to arm yourself with only one screwdriver. For this purpose you will need a whole list:

pliers;
screwdrivers - slotted and Phillips;
chisel;
regular hammer;
waterproof sealant;
a set of keys;
rubber mallet (optional).

Changing a bearing yourself is a labor-intensive and responsible process at every stage. In fact, you will have to completely disassemble the washing machine and then reassemble it. It is advisable to photograph each step, and write down the sequence of actions. Only in this case will it be possible to carry out the replacement successfully.

Prerequisites for malfunction

To diagnose bearing wear, you should listen to the sounds emanating from the washing machine while it is operating, without waiting for it to break down. Grinding, rustling and similar extraneous sounds symbolize the presence of malfunctions in the equipment and therefore require replacement. The prerequisites for their appearance can be many factors, the most common being a leaking oil seal. Violation of its technical parameters leads to the development of a corrosion process that destroys the part.

As you continue to operate a faulty machine, there is a gradual destruction of the associated elements: bushing, oil seal, shaft. As a result, the level of alignment of the motor pulley and the drive is disrupted. In the area of the front side of the drum, the formation of specific grooves is observed. This situation arises during the working contact of the internal areas of the tank. In this case, it is necessary to stop the operation of the equipment to painlessly fix the problem and replace the parts.

We'll collect everything you need

To replace bearings on a Vestel machine, you must first prepare for the process. First of all, we find a puller or hammer, a flat-head and Phillips screwdriver, a set of wrenches and hexagons, a screwdriver, a chisel, a rubber mallet, pliers and side cutters. A couple of clean rags will also come in handy.

In addition to tools, you will also need new spare parts. To do this, we go to the market, service center, specialized store, or place an order in an online store. In any case, it is better to focus on the serial number of the model, which must be indicated on the sticker markings on the back of the machine. Along with the bearings, it is recommended to change both seals, and for top-loading machines, calipers are also included in the kit. It is also important to have seal lubricant, kerosene or all-purpose WD-40.

Important! In order not to make a mistake with the size of the bearing and oil seal, remove the damaged model and use the markings on it to guide you.

Next, we prepare the washing machine itself for repair:

disconnect the unit from the power supply;
turn off the water supply and disconnect the inlet hose;
unscrew the drain hose;
for convenience, we twist all the hoses and cords;
we move the equipment away from the wall or pull it out of the closet to such a distance that you can easily approach the back wall.

Another piece of advice is to take the time to take care of your camera and notepad in advance. By carefully recording all steps taken to disassemble the machine, you can make reassembly easier and avoid many mistakes. When everything is assembled, we begin dismantling.

Preparatory stage

Replacing a bearing assembly with your own hands is quite difficult, but it is quite possible if you do not experiment and be extremely careful. If you have the slightest doubt, it is better to contact professional repairmen so as not to aggravate the problem and provoke a major overhaul. Therefore, first we read the instructions and assess the degree of complexity of the upcoming work.

First, let's check the condition of the bearings again. Let's spin the drum and listen. If there is a cracking sound, a knocking sound and a quick stop, we begin dismantling.
We go behind the machine and unscrew the two bolts holding the top cover. Then we return to the front side and gently move the top away from us. Once the latches are released, you need to remove the cover and set it aside.

On a note! The removed cover can be turned over and used as a stand for all small parts and fasteners to be removed to prevent their loss.

We tilt the body back a little.
We take out the external dispenser by sharply pulling it towards ourselves.
We unscrew the bolts holding the front panel on both sides of the body, as well as the fasteners on the powder receptacle.
Move the removed panel to the side.
Let's move on to the hatch cuff. Remove the front clamp and tuck the rubber inside.
We remove the front bar. We unscrew the four self-tapping screws, one in each corner, close the door, lower the panel down until the latches engage, move the door lock and remove the part.
We take out the second part of the strip by unscrewing two screws on both sides.
We select suitable heads and unscrew the counterweights from the bottom and top.
We disconnect the remaining part of the dispenser by removing the valve and pulling out the pipe.
Use pliers to release the clamp on the lower pipe.
We tighten all the clamps on the existing wires.
We release the wiring.
We pull out the shock absorbers by hand and disconnect the pressure switch.

The preparatory part is over. All that remains is to get the tank out, holding it with one hand and removing the springs on both sides with the other. Then we place the plastic container with the cross up on a soft surface and begin dismantling the bearing assembly.

Features of replacement in a top-loading machine

Top-loading machines do not require complete disassembly to replace the bearing. You just need to open the side panel and gain access to the pulley. After dismantling it, the hub will open - a removable part; a bearing and oil seal are pressed into it. It is removable and secured with several bolts. Those. The hub is completely replaced and can be purchased as a set.

Replacing a bearing in a washing machine is a labor-intensive process, during which you need to act methodically and scrupulously. By writing down each step and carefully placing the parts and screws for them in separate containers, you will be able to avoid losing the thread of the process. It is equally important to purchase a suitable replacement part; others simply will not fit.

Source

Timken

Timken
The Timken Company was founded in 1899 by Henry Timken (the inventor of tapered roller bearings) and his two sons. Since 1901, the company's headquarters have been located in Canton, Ohio, USA.