Is it possible to replace the gum in the washing machine if it has become unusable? In this article, we have collected all the answers and tips from the masters.
The hatch cuff is one of the most vulnerable parts of the washing machine. If manufacturers give a guarantee for the engine of 5 years or more, then the sealant’s serviceability often depends on compliance with the operating rules.
Causes of cuff damage
The part is rarely repairable, so it’s easier to replace it. The hatch cuff may need to be replaced after the machine has been used for too long – this part has its own margin of safety.
There are other reasons for wear:
- Excessive use of detergents, due to which the gum “gets old”.
- Mechanical friction on other parts of the drum or on buttons, rivets on clothing.
- Fungus. This pest slowly and imperceptibly contributes to the deterioration of the quality of the cuff.
- Careless handling. Loading or unloading the drum can damage the rubber band.
Having understood the causes of wear, we can proceed to the next step: how to remove the sunroof cuff if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Remove the cuff
Many CMA models are designed so that you do not need to disassemble the case to replace the rubber seal. In some, disassembly of the frontal part is indispensable. But do not worry – you do not need to be a specialist, even a beginner will cope with the work.
The main thing is to be careful, follow the safety rules and, if you need to replace the rubber cuff, buy a strictly identical part.
Before replacing the hatch cuff with your own hands, assemble a small tool case. You will need:
- Phillips screwdriver or electric screwdriver;
- 2 slotted (minus) screwdrivers;
- needle nose pliers and socket wrench (optional)
- dishwashing detergent or gel soap.
Whatever your washing machine, you need to act in almost the same way:
- Examine the machine and move it away from the wall.
- Disconnect from communications: electricity and water supply.
- Unload the clothes from the drum.
- Open the hatch.
The seal is secured with two clamps. Remove the first one, which is usually located on the outside of the elastic:
- Gently bend the elastic band by pulling it towards you.
- You will see a detail that looks like a metal wire (but the clamp can be plastic).
- Pry the clamp with the first thin screwdriver, and with the help of the second pull the part towards you.
- If you have needle nose pliers, you can remove them. The collar is pulled together by a special spring: if it is stretched, it will easily come off. To stretch the spring, you need to insert the tool into its mounts and spread the handles. The spring will stretch, the clamp can be easily dismantled.
To remove the second (inner) clamp, remove the front panel of the machine. It’s easy to do this:
- Remove a couple of screws from the back of the washer that hold the top cover.
- Pull the cover towards you, remove and set aside.
- Remove the detergent drawer. Pull out the receiver almost completely and push down on the latch, which you will see in the center. This is usually a small piece of plastic that covers the rinse aid container.
- Unscrew all the fasteners that you see behind the detergent dispenser.
- Above the indication panel, unscrew 2 more bolts, then carefully move the panel up so as not to break the wiring.
- There are still fasteners under the panel – get rid of them too.
- The washer should rest against the wall: tilt it back a little to make it easier to remove the fasteners from below.
- Open the service hatch at the bottom of the machine (front).
- Straighten the emergency drain hose and unscrew any fasteners you find.
- Push the elastic into the drum as far as possible.
- You can remove the front cover. To make it easy to succumb, pull it up.
There are only a few steps left:
- Locate the clamp that holds the seal against the tank.
- To loosen it, you need to unscrew the bolt. If it is inconvenient, then hold the nut with a spanner wrench.
- If your CM model has filler pipes attached to the cuff, remove them from there by loosening the clips and removing the retainer.
- Now you have completely freed the part, you can remove it.
Attention! Since you have done such painstaking work, take advantage of the good moment and clean the front of the drum from accumulated dirt and scale.
Be careful: when dismantling the top cover, put on gloves, as the lower ends are sharp. And if the front panel is heavy, call someone for help so as not to drop it on yourself.
Now, if you need to replace the cuff in the washing machine, then you need to take a new part and assemble the machine.
We carry out the installation
Installing the cuff on the washing machine is a simple process. Follow our recommendations to quickly complete the assembly of the machine and change the sealing collar:
- Inspect the new part, especially the grooves that will lock into the grooves. If there are burrs, remove them.
- Turn the elastic to the right side down. In order not to get confused, focus on the holes through which water passes.
- Lubricate the grooves with a solution of soap.
- Pull the cuff over the tank.
- Mount the outer wire tie. Tighten it firmly.
- Put all panels back on.
- Replace the drain hose, fix the detergent dispenser.
- Soap the sleeve on the outside to easily snap it into the groove.
Important! To ensure that the clamp holding the elastic on the inside is well tightened, when tightening the fastener, press the part as if it were a lever. When it is securely installed, the displacement will stop.
All that remains to be done is to connect the machine to communications and run a test wash to make sure that you did everything right and the machine does not leak.
Is repair possible
Usually they don’t do it. But home craftsmen assure that if the hole is small and located on top, rubber patches (for boats or bicycle tires) can be used.
Now you know how to install the cuff of the hatch of the washing machine. If you have any questions about dismantling or installation, watch the video: