Think about how much the washing machine drum vibrates? In spin mode, it performs from 700 to 1800 rpm. Important parts help the machine withstand such a load - two shock absorbers under the tank. In this article we will tell you how shock absorbers for a washing machine are designed, why they break and how to replace them with your own hands.
Relevant for most brands of washing machines: AEG / AEG, Asko / Asko, Aurica / Aurika, Beko / Beko, Bosch Classixx, Logixx, Maxx Comfort / Bosch Classics, Logix, Max Comfort (or Maxx); Candy / Kandy, Electrolux EW, EWF, EWS / Electrolux; Gorenje / Gorenje, Haier / Hayer, Hansa / Hansa, Hotpoint Ariston Margherita / Hotpoint Ariston Margherita, Indesit / Indesit, LG / LG / LZh, Miele / Mile, ReNova / Renova, Samsung Diamond / Samsung Diamond, Siemens Siwamat / Siemens Sivamat; Vestel / Vestel, Whirlpool / Whirlpool, Zanussi / Zanussi; Alenka, Assol, Atlant, Vyatka, Riga, Siberia, Smena, Eureka and others, including direct drive equipment.
Over time, the washing machine began to vibrate, how to fix the problem
After
many years of service, your washing machine has started to vibrate. At first this is not noticeable, but over time the vibration intensifies, and the machine begins to “run” across the floor, causing an extraneous knock or creaking sound. Where does this come from and what is the reason: is it incorrectly installed or is it an internal failure?
Content.
1.
Malfunction of shock absorbers in the washing machine.
1.1
Replacing shock absorbers.
2.
Counterweight in the washing machine.
2.1
Repair of counterweight.
3.
Spring tank hangers.
3.1
Replacing the spring suspensions of the tank.
4.
Drum shaft bearing.
4.1
Replacing the bearing.
Believe me, the reason is not laminate, carpet, linoleum or other unstable floors, as they write on almost all sites! Also, the problem cannot be solved with vibration washers; on the contrary, the longer you delay with repairs, the greater the likelihood of a critical breakdown.
Let's figure out how to eliminate the vibration of a stylish machine
and where does it even come from? This problem is associated with the rotation of the drum and may be completely unnoticeable in the washing (rinsing) mode, but only manifest itself during the spin cycle. During spinning, the drum rotates at a speed of 600 - 1000 rpm and the machine mechanisms experience maximum load.
Where and at what price can I buy a new one?
When purchasing a heater online, you need to consider the following parameters:
- seat dimensions;
- presence of a collar, seals, holes for the sensor;
- configuration of the working part of the heating element (shape, length and width);
- power.
LG washing machines are equipped with heating elements with a power of 1.1 to 3.2 kW and a length of 173-240 mm.
If a strictly similar part is not supplied, you can select a heater with similar characteristics. The permissible discrepancy in length is -1 cm, and in power - ±200 W. The new element must have the same shape as the previous one: straight or curved.
Some models of heating elements have a protective coating, which does not affect its configuration and interchangeability, but increases wear resistance and service life. The cost of the heater ranges from 400 to 1500 rubles. The best manufacturers of tubular elements for LG washing machines are IRCA and Thermowatt.
Faulty shock absorbers in the washing machine
The most common cause is shock absorbers. They are precisely designed to dampen vibration in the washing machine, but over time they wear out and fail to cope with their task.
- high vibration during spinning;
- in the washing or rinsing mode, a measured tapping sound is heard;
- When the drum stops, a dull knock is heard.
You can check the shock absorbers without disassembling, just open the loading hatch and press the drum. It should sag a little and then smoothly return to its place. If the drum gives in easily and sways from side to side, then the shock absorbers are out of order.
Replacing shock absorbers
How to eliminate vibration in a stylish car if the shock absorbers are faulty. They are replaced only in pairs, as they evenly distribute the load. Replacing only one will not eliminate vibration. First you need to measure them, but to do this correctly, you will have to remove one. What dimensions are needed when ordering a new shock absorber:
- overall dimensions when folded;
- center distance between fasteners;
- the size of the fasteners themselves (width, length, diameter).
To replace them, place the car on either side, the tank will rest on the wall and the shock absorbers will be released, after which they can be easily changed. Pay special attention to tightening the mounting bolts and nuts so that they do not loosen during operation. To do this, tighten all fasteners, wait 5 minutes and check them again.
Call the master
If it is impossible to replace Bosch shock absorbers with new ones yourself, you can call a specialist. It is best to contact companies that have been in the market for a long time and provide high-level repair services for washing equipment. This can be judged by the positive customer reviews. This will allow you to entrust your equipment to professionals and not get caught by scammers.
The cost of a master's thesis depends on the company's price list and the amount of work done. If other repairs are required in addition to shock absorber replacement, the cost will be higher. The average price in the capital is 1300 rubles. Spare parts are paid separately.
After installing new shock absorbers, the technician conducts a test run and gives a guarantee for the repairs performed.
Counterweight in a washing machine
Washing machines have a concrete counterweight on the tub. By creating additional weight, it is also designed to dampen vibrations. The counterweight can be solid or divided into sections (up to 3 pieces). It is secured with two or three bolts, which can simply fall off over time. It happens that the concrete counterweight cracks and a piece may even fall off, creating an imbalance.
Checking the condition of the counterweight is quite simple. You need to turn the machine around and remove the back cover. Then visually check the condition of the counterweights, and then tug each of them. It would be a good idea to take a wrench and check the tightness of the bolts.
Removing the top panel and its subsequent installation
To remove the cover you need to unscrew the screws holding it in place. The number of these parts varies depending on the specific model, but most often there are two. The screws are unscrewed, removed and set aside.
It is important to work in good lighting, since there are washers placed under the screw heads that are easy to lose, and this should not be allowed, because they will be useful during subsequent assembly
After making sure that nothing is holding the cover in place, you need to pull it towards you (away from the front panel). As a result of this action, the cover will come out of the grooves holding it. Almost ready, all that remains is to lift it and put it aside. Access to the parts of the Bosch washing machine is open, you can continue repairs.
The procedure for installing the cover is not complicated; in fact, you need to proceed in the reverse order. First, it is placed on the body with an offset. Align the grooves on the body and in the lid, applying a little force, push it into place until a characteristic click is heard. After these manipulations, all that remains is to tighten the bolts, always using the supplied washers.
Spring hangers for washing machine tank
The washing machine tub actually hangs in the air on two (four) powerful springs that hold it on the sides. Over time, metal fatigue sets in and one of the springs may burst. After this, the tank is actually lowered onto one of the shock absorbers, so there can be no question of any vibration damping.
It is very easy to identify this malfunction. Pay attention to the drum and how it stands in relation to the sealing lip of the loading hatch. If the cuff is deformed and the drum moves to one side, then the spring has 100% burst. To make sure of this, remove the top cover and look at the side springs, they are not covered by anything, and you will immediately see them.
Replacing tank spring hangers
Replacing the spring is very simple, you just need to measure it correctly. To do this, you can remove the surviving one and use a tape measure to measure the length and diameter. To change it, place the car on the back wall, then you can set the tank in the desired position and put on a new spring without any problems.
Rules for selecting spare parts
Each washing machine model has its own design features. Therefore, there are no universal spare parts that fit all washing machines.
When purchasing new shock absorbers, it is advisable to make sure of their quality. When compressed, the part must provide resistance.
If, when compressing, practically no effort is required, such a part is not suitable for installation.
You should not purchase more powerful shock absorbers with the hope that the washing machine will be overloaded. This is a mistaken opinion; this cannot be done, since all elements of the machine (not just dampers) are designed for certain loading parameters specified by the manufacturer.
If you have doubts about choosing a new pair of parts, you can go to the store with the removed ones and ask the seller to pick up similar ones.
Video review on the selection of shock absorbers:
Drum shaft bearing
There are bearings on the drum shaft, and to prevent water from getting into it from the tank, it is sealed with an oil seal. Over time, the seal wears out and water seeps into the bearing, rendering it unusable. The bearing may also wear out on its own, causing the washing machine to vibrate.
In the initial stages of wear, you may hear a slight whistling sound during the spin cycle or a squeaking sound during the washing and rinsing modes. Characteristic signs of failure are squeaks, crunches and hum when the drum is rotated manually.
Replacing the drum shaft bearing
How to eliminate vibration in a stylish car if you suspect a bearing. Replacing a bearing is the most difficult and time-consuming process of all. To do this, you need to completely remove the tank from the washing machine, then carefully halve it and knock the drum out of the second half of the tank.
Try to do this carefully so as not to damage the threads on the shaft. When the shaft comes out, both bearings will remain inside the tank and need to be knocked out. Regardless of the condition, both bearings and the cuff are changed at once.
You can buy new bearings with a cuff on the Internet, an auto store or a bazaar.
After the bearings are pressed in and the tank is assembled, check by hand how the drum rotates. If they are installed correctly and are not damaged during pressing, then you will not hear any noise and can safely assemble the washing machine.
Subtleties of disassembling cars of different brands
Washing machines made by different manufacturers are generally similar and perform the same set of basic functions. However, there are significant differences in the design of the units and the arrangement of internal working parts.
For many popular washing machine models, the heating element is located in front. To get to it, you just need to remove the front cover and carefully remove the part for subsequent repair, replacement or cleaning.
For correct disassembly, it is very important to know the specific unique features of the model to be repaired. Then the work will be easy and you will be able to penetrate the fault zone without any problems.
Steps to disassemble Samsung machines
Samsung household washing machines are quite easy to disassemble. The container for loading powder is located conveniently and is held on by only two screws. The working heating element is located at the bottom of the tank directly under the front cover and getting to it is not difficult.
If the door of a Samsung washing machine does not open, the problem should be looked for in the control module. It is quite difficult to cope with such a plan on your own. It is better to transfer this work to specialists from the service center
You can learn more about repairing Samsung washing machines in a step-by-step guide, which is given in our recommended article.
The nuances of repairing models from Ariston
In Ariston products, bearings and tank seals most often fail. The design of the model is thought out in such a way that this unit cannot be repaired. But for skilled and experienced home craftsmen there are no barriers.
To replace the seal, the solid tank is flared or sawed with a handsaw. There is no other way to restore parts, except, of course, by purchasing a new tank and installing it at the company’s service center.
A bad engine in Ariston equipment is a common occurrence. To repair, you need to unscrew the bolts, remove the back of the housing, and then remove the assembly. If after diagnostics it turns out that the element cannot be repaired, you will have to buy a new one and install it in place of the old one
The latest generation Ariston washing machine models are equipped with self-diagnosis devices, which significantly speeds up the process of troubleshooting. Codes of malfunctions and operational errors are displayed on the display, notifying about an emerging or impending problem. Decoding them will help you understand what should be repaired and how.
Procedure for disassembling Atlant washing machines
Atlant brand devices are practically designed and can be repaired. At the very beginning of disassembly, it is necessary to remove the counterweight, and then remove the external control panel. The drum in these models consists of two halves, secured with bolts, so any working parts can be replaced in no time.
Models from the Atlant company have a built-in self-diagnosis system. In the event of a malfunction, the electronics displays relevant information on the display. Owners can read the message, consult documentation and determine how to fix the problem
Specifics of Electrolux brand machines
Electrolux machines are very reliable and rarely break down. Our rating will introduce you to the top ten Electrolux washing machines in sales. The front panel can be easily removed and immediately provides access to all the main components and parts.
Working bearings and oil seals are placed on separate removable supports. To replace them, you do not need to completely disassemble the drum.
If the working drum in the Electrolux washing machine does not spin, most likely the brushes, drive belt, motor or control board are damaged. You can look for the problem yourself, but the technicians from the service center will do it faster and at the highest professional level
Features of LG washing equipment
LG household washing appliances have a complex design. To remove the front panel, you will first have to use a screwdriver to unscrew the nuts that securely fix the hatch cover. Then you have to carefully remove the screw that tightly tightens the clamp to hold the cuff.
To make it easier to deal with disassembling washing equipment, you can visually study the design features of the unit by looking at this diagram
Then you will need to remove the weighting material located on top and only then carefully remove the tank to be repaired or replaced.
The South Korean manufacturer equips its new models with a self-diagnosis system. Deciphering error codes will help you quickly and accurately determine what needs to be changed and where to repair. It will allow you to immediately decide whether it is worth doing the repairs yourself or whether it is better to go to a workshop.
Troubleshooting
Shock absorbers prevent the device from sliding on the floor during washing and spinning. They reduce the vibration coming from the drum; without them, it would jump during washing, and the drum spinning at high speeds would damage the structure.
After many years of service, shock absorbers lose strength, so it is recommended to periodically carry out diagnostics, otherwise the washing machine may break at the most inopportune moment.
Diagnostics for vertical loading
If shock absorbers or dampers are damaged, a specific noise is heard - knocking during washing, coming from inside. Possible distortions of the housing or strong vibration.
Diagnostics for vertical loading is carried out as follows.
- Press the top of the tank with your hand. If you feel that there is no resistance, and after you remove your hand it continues to swing, then it is time for repairs.
- Watch how the drum rotates. If it’s tight or squeaky, it means the parts are not lubricated at all.
- Disassemble the machine, remove the cover from the back. Press down on the tank again and forcefully lower it down, then quickly release it. If the tank jumps and no longer moves, then the shock absorbers are normal.
These simple diagnostic methods will help you determine whether your washing machine's dampers need repair.
Front loading diagnostics
Diagnosis of a front-loading washing machine occurs in a different way.
- Press firmly on the tank at the top and look at the hatch seal lip. If folds form on it, then repair is needed.
- Be sure to note how much the tank drops as you press.
Normally, when pressing, folds should not appear on the seal and the tank should not sag when it is loaded.
If all these defects are found, the device should be repaired.
Typical causes of breakdowns
Depending on the settings, the brand of the unit and the functions performed, the washing machine drums make from 700 to 1800 revolutions per minute. Such an impressive load, and even with the application of rotational force, can easily damage contacting parts and weaken components and connections.
If shock absorbers had not been developed to dampen the vibration of the drum and the tank containing it during the spin period, the machine would have to be repaired after each washing “session”. Their purpose is no different from the functions of similar car devices.
What are shock absorbers and dampers?
Dampers are used in more modern washing machines. They differ from shock absorbers in that they consist only of a spring. The shock absorber has a more complex design.
- Cylinder.
- Return spring.
- Piston with rods.
- Gaskets.
This type of shock absorber is called spring-piston, and is a cylindrical metal device containing a bushing. The rod moves in it during operation. On its upper part there is a special fit for rubber inserts, with the help of the latter it is connected to the drum.
A piston with a gasket is fixed at the base of the rod. It is impregnated with a special lubricant that does not dry out for a long time and increases the friction force during movement. The work of the shock absorber is as follows:
- With sharp jumps, linear movement of the rod occurs.
- The piston, pushed by the rod, moves inside the cylinder.
- Lubrication creates the necessary conditions for movement so that it does not slip idle.
- When weakening occurs, the rod returns to its original position.
Characteristics of the substance
Theoretically, lubricant should solve the problem with dampers wearing out. After treatment with a viscous compound, the friction force between the rod and the “head” of the shock absorber will be smoothed out, which will prevent the drum from swinging, imbalance and other technical problems. But ordinary products like WD-40 or Solidol will not help here - special mixtures are required.
Finding a suitable lubricant is where difficulties arise, since it is unclear where to find a professional product. At service centers and branded sales points that supply components for washing machines, you can purchase either a repair kit for repairing racks or the damper itself. The consultants working there had never even heard of lubricants - we checked several large stores and left with nothing.
Washing machine shock absorber repair
Replacing shock absorbers in a washing machine can be done even by an amateur, without causing any harm to the machine.
Checking for serviceability
To repair the shock absorber of a washing machine with your own hands, you need to check which part has become unusable.
It is necessary to provide access to the damper part of the mechanism. It is recommended to place the washing machine on its side. Then follow the instructions:
- Unscrew the two bolts on the back of the machine that secure the top cover and remove it.
- Pull out the washing powder tray.
- Release the drain filter from the panel covering it.
- Remove the control panel. To do this, you will need to unscrew additional bolts and disconnect the wires.
- After gaining access to the cuff of the façade of the device, remove the securing clamp, and then the cuff itself. Push it inside the machine.
- Now it is recommended to detach the façade.
To determine whether the damper is worth replacing, it is recommended to compress it. If it compresses and unclenches very easily and freely, then the device must be replaced. If the structure is compressed with difficulty, the shock absorber will still work.
There are other reasons for device failure.
- The liner or gasket is worn out. Then replace the rubber part of the device.
- Mechanical deformation due to improper transportation. A replacement will be needed here.
- The bolts are worn out and the shock absorber is simply hanging on them. The bolts will need to be replaced.
Replacing a part if there is a malfunction
To repair the shock absorber yourself, it is recommended to remove the insert. See how the rod moves without the insert. If it moves easily, then the gasket is worn out. This is what needs to be replaced.
- From a belt three millimeters thick, cut a piece to the diameter of the device.
- Install it instead of the gasket.
- Lubricate to improve friction before installing the rod. It is recommended to use regular lubricating oil.
- Insert the rod back.
When a shock absorber has mechanical damage from wear or defects, it is better to replace it with a new one. Read and remember the brand and model of the damper and tell your dealer. Do not buy parts at random, they may not fit the machine.
It is best to go to the store with an old shock absorber. This method is more reliable. The seller will see the part and select the one he needs in return.
Let's get to the details
Worn shock absorbers make themselves felt by increased hum, vibration and jumping of the machine during operation, and in order not to aggravate the situation with drum balancing, the dampers must be changed. But the “diagnosis” is confirmed by disassembling the machine, so let’s get down to business. We act strictly according to the established algorithm.
- Disconnect the unit from the power supply, turn off the water supply, and disconnect the drain and inlet hoses.
- We provide free access to the washing machine from all sides.
- We drain the residual water through a garbage filter.
- Remove the tray.
- Unscrew the bolts from the back and remove the back wall.
- Remove the drive belt by pulling the rubber towards you while rotating the pulley.
- Disconnect all conductors suitable for the engine.
Important! To facilitate the reassembly process, record the location of the wires leading to the motor with notes, markers or a photograph.
- Using a 13mm wrench, loosen all the fastenings holding the electric motor.
- We hook each fastener with a flat screwdriver, squeezing out the stuck joints.
- Pull the engine towards you and remove it.
The path to the shock absorbers is open, but you can only reach them from the bottom. Therefore, we cover the floor with rags and turn the machine on its side. Be prepared for some water to spill out, which you need to wipe up quickly, avoiding getting moisture on the wiring and control board.
