Replacing bearings or repairing a washing machine drum requires disassembling the tub. Sometimes it breaks itself. After reading the article, you will learn how to properly disassemble and seal the washing machine tank, what tools are best to use.
Causes of breakage
It would seem that it can break in the tank, because the washing of clothes takes place in the drum. However, moving elements often fail, or the walls are deformed.
The reasons:
- Defective bearings and seals.
- Due to wear of the bearings, the shaft is deformed.
- Wall deformation also occurs due to bearing wear. Sometimes their tightness is broken, as the drum is in strong contact with the walls, causing friction. In this case, you already have to think about how to close a hole in the tank of the washing machine.
There are two types of tank design that are used in modern machines: collapsible and non-collapsible.
In the first case, the two halves are fastened with bolts, which are enough to unscrew for disassembly.
In the second case, the parts are soldered using ultrasound, which combines them into one solid structure. To disassemble, you will have to cut the washing machine tank into two parts, and then glue them together.
Before figuring out how to cut and split the washing machine tank, consider the sequence of its removal from the washing machine body.
How to get a tank
Consider how to do the job, using the example of CMA Indesit:
- After disconnecting the machine from the mains, remove the top and rear panels by unscrewing the bolts.
- Remove the drive belt from the pulley.
- Disconnect the wires leading to the heating element.
- For further work, open access to the lower part of the SMA.
- Loosen the clamp holding the drain pipe to remove it.
- Loosen the shock absorber nuts.
- Go to the top, unscrew the weight fasteners, remove it.
- To remove the powder receiver tray, unscrew the screw at the back.
- Pull out the dispenser tray, unscrew the control panel screws.
- Remove the panel by unplugging the connectors.
- After disconnecting the nozzle, remove the detergent drawer.
- Remove the cuff, after removing the clamp.
- Remove the pressure switch by releasing the latches.
- Remove the tank from the hangers and remove from the body.
Sequence of work
Now you can start disassembling, after which you will learn how to seal the drum and tank of the washing machine.
- Lay the item on a flat surface.
- Remove the load from it by unscrewing the fasteners.
- Remove the motor by unscrewing the fixing screws.
Preparation is over. Next, you need to outline the places where the screws will be attached. Sealing the washing machine tank does not end with the use of an adhesive. Additionally, drill holes of 3 mm around the perimeter for fasteners. In total, they should turn out from 15 to 20.
Arm yourself with a thin hacksaw for metal and canvas. With the tank on edge, start cutting from the top. Use the blade where the hacksaw cannot pass.
Note! Do not go deeper than 5 cm. Otherwise, you may damage the drum.
Spray the seam alternately with water. This will help to avoid heating the walls and make it easier to cut.
After receiving two halves, pull out the drum. For this:
- rotate the back of the tank;
- disassemble the shaft on which the drum is mounted;
- to do this, unscrew the fastening bolt;
- remove the pulley;
- pointing a metal bolt at the shaft, tap it with a hammer;
- take out the drum.
After disassembly, another question arises: how to repair and seal a plastic water tank?
Examine the parts from the inside. If they are badly damaged, do not waste time on repairs. Replace seals and bearings if necessary.
How to achieve tightness
The sealant or adhesive for the washing machine tank must meet the conditions of its operation. That is, to withstand temperature extremes, vibrations, pressure, exposure to water. Therefore, the choice must be approached responsibly.
What kind of sealant can be used to glue the washing machine tank:
- Permatex 81730. Adhesive sealant has fluidity, due to which it effectively seals all seams and cracks. The transparent waterproof seam is resistant to extreme temperatures (from -62° to 232°), shock and strong vibrations. The ideal solution for those who are looking for how to glue the washing machine tank after repair.
- Secures moving seams due to its elasticity. Widely used in outdoor construction work. Able to withstand critical temperatures up to +315°C. Economical consumption and durability are guaranteed.
- Adhesive F. Really powerful – you don’t even need to fix the parts with screws. However, there is a minus: when re-disassembling the tank, you will have to saw it again. It costs more than sealant.
- ABRO 11AB-R. This sealant provides a reliable effect even under extreme conditions. Possesses resistance to high and low temperatures, mechanical influences.
After choosing, it remains to apply sealant to the edges of the halves and fasten them.
Now tighten the screws in the prepared places. Feel free to assemble the machine and run the wash to check.
Doing this work on your own is a feat, but you can do it if you arm yourself with our professional advice.
To help you, we offer a video on how to glue the washing machine tank: