How to repair shock absorbers in a washing machine with your own hands

In this article, we will analyze the principle of operation of the shock absorber of a washing machine, find out why this part is needed and how to fix it if necessary. Depending on the brand of washer, these parts may have their own characteristics.

work Features

What are shock absorbers for? They dampen the vibrations of the machine during operation, therefore they are located under the tank. When spinning at high speeds, the drum rotates rapidly, the CMA begins to vibrate strongly. If there was no shock-absorbing effect, then she would jump on the spot.

More modern SM models use dampers. Let’s see what are the differences between these shock-absorbing parts.

Device difference

Before replacing shock absorbers in a washing machine, consider their device:

  • cylinder;
  • returnable spring;
  • piston with rods;
  • pads.

Now let’s move on to the damper of the shock absorber of the washing machine. The element is the same cylindrical structure, only without springs. In this case, the washing tank is suspended on springs. This feature contributes to better damping of vibrations, therefore it is used everywhere in new models.

Checking and diagnostics

How to independently check the correct operation of shock absorbers? First, pay attention to the characteristic signs of breakdown:

  • If the part is not well lubricated, the drum will start to turn hard.
  • Producing high speeds, the washer makes a lot of noise, knocks, vibrates.

Second, diagnose the shock absorbers for the washing machine. How to do it yourself:

  1. It is necessary to remove the top cover of the CM. Disconnect it from the mains, then unscrew the two screws that hold the cover on the back. Push it in the opposite direction from you and remove it from the body.
  2. With a little effort, press the tank with your hands so that it drops down. Now release abruptly.
  3. Follow the movements of the tank. If it jumped up and doesn’t move anymore, the dampers are fine. If it starts to swing in different directions, you will have to repair the shock absorber or damper of the washing machine with your own hands.

What damage could happen

What caused the malfunction:

  • Worn gaskets due to frequent use.
  • Defective parts, improper transportation of the machine.
  • Malfunction of the rod that secures the shock absorber.

Whatever breakdown occurs, it is important to know how to restore the shock absorber in the washing machine with your own hands. Read about it below.

Independent repair

Let’s find out how you can get to the damper. Proceed as follows:

  • Assume you have already removed the top cover.
  • Shut off the water supply and disconnect the inlet hose from the housing. It may contain water, so prepare a container in advance to drain it.
  • Now you need to remove the front panel. To do this, pull out the dispenser tray: press the latch in the center and pull the tray towards you.
  • Unscrew the screws that secure the control panel. Two or three bolts are located behind the tray and on the opposite side.
  • Release the plastic latches.
  • Take a photo of the wires on the panel and disconnect them or place the panel on top of the CMA case.
  • Open the hatch door. Bending the sealing rubber, pry off the metal clamp with a screwdriver, remove it.
  • Tuck the cuff inside the drum.
  • Unscrew the hatch lock bolts (UBL).
  • Disconnect the wiring from the blocking device, pull it out.
  • Release the latches on the panel at the bottom where the drain filter is located and set aside.
  • Unscrew the screws securing the front panel and remove it.

At the bottom of the tank you will notice two dampers. They are usually fastened with plastic rods on top and bolts on the bottom. How to remove the shock absorber from the washing machine:

  • Put a nut on the reverse side of the stem mount to disarm the latch.
  • Grasping the stem with pliers, pull it towards you.
  • Now unscrew the bolt at the bottom.

Some users are wondering: how to check shock absorbers when buying? Same as with replacement. Squeeze and unclench the part in your hand: if it is hard to do this, then the product is working properly. If you easily compress the shock absorber, it needs to be replaced.

Note! Even if only one damper is faulty, both must be changed at once.

How can I repair a shock absorber in a washing machine with my own hands? First, pull out the insert that slows down the movement of the stem. If the stem moves easily and quickly, most likely the insert (gasket) has worn out. To replace it:

  • Take a 3 mm thick belt.
  • Measure the length of the hole diameter.
  • Insert the cut piece of the belt into place of the seal so that the edges fit snugly together.
  • Before you install the stem, you need to lubricate the part to reduce friction. If you do not know how to lubricate the shock absorbers of the washing machine, use regular lubricant oil.
  • Install the stem. Now you know how to fix a washing machine shock absorber.

For more information about the repair, see the video:

In different models of CM, details may differ, so do not buy at random. In the store, name the brand and model of the washing machine to the seller, and he will suggest suitable items for you. Or go shopping with an old damper. Be sure to select a suitable spare part before replacing shock absorbers on a washing machine.

Another difficulty. In some models of washing machines, in order to dismantle the dampers, you will have to pull out the tank with the drum.

To install, insert the stems first, securing the top. Then tighten the bolt at the bottom, assemble the machine. Repair completed. Having figured out how to change and check the shock absorber on the washing machine, you can start doing it yourself. Buy new parts or repair old ones – the choice is yours. The video will help you:

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