How to tighten the belt on an Indesit washing machine?

Replacing the drive belt on Indesit washing machines is a two-step process. First, remove the old part. It's very simple: gently rock the pulley while using your free hand to pull the rubber band off the drum wheel.

Next, you need to tighten the belt on your Indesit washing machine. It's not as simple as it seems. Let's figure out how to properly tighten the rubber band on the "wheel" without any help.

Step-by-step repair description

If you notice that the drive belt on your automatic washing machine is worn out, don't delay replacing it. You can either purchase replacement parts immediately, based on the model and serial number of your washing machine, or after removing the old belt. The second option minimizes the risk of selecting the wrong parts.

Let's figure out how to put the new strap back on. The steps are as follows:

• de-energize the washing machine;
• disconnect the device from utility lines (the inlet and drain hoses are disconnected from the body);
• move the washing machine away from the wall;
• Unscrew the bolts securing the rear panel of the case and set the wall aside. If the "top" is in the way, remove the cover first;
• Locate the drive belt – it's located between the large and small pulleys. In some cases, it falls off on its own and lies underneath the washing machine;
• Remove and inspect the drive belt. Study the markings—the four digits at the beginning indicate the factory diameter of the element. Measure the circumference of the rubber band and compare the two measurements. If the discrepancy is more than two centimeters, the belt is unsuitable for further use.
• Place the new belt first on the motor shaft and then on the pulley. Tighten the elastic and begin moving the drum "wheel" – this will position the belt in the grooves;
• Make sure the drive belt is securely in place by rotating the pulley a few times. When the "wheel" rotates smoothly, the job is done correctly.

Once you've finished handling the belt, reassemble the washing machine. First, replace and bolt the back panel, then the top cover. Next, connect the drain and inlet hoses to the machine. Then, move the washing machine back to the wall.

This way, you can fix the problem yourself. Replacing the drive belt is a simple task, even a novice can handle it. The main thing is to select the right components and follow the instructions.

The belt "jumped" off the pulley after repair.

Sometimes installing a new part helps solve the problem only for a short period of time. If, after a few washes and the belt has come off the pulley again, there is some problem with the drive system. A more in-depth diagnosis of the washing machine will be required. You can check the washing machine yourself at home.

When the belt comes off the pulley more often than once every 2-3 months, it will be necessary to inspect the drive system components for damage.

Why might your belt be slipping frequently? We'll cover all the possible causes.

• Natural belt wear. If the elastic band slips only once, it's acceptable to reattach it. If, after two or three such tightenings, the drive belt slips more frequently, it should be replaced. This indicates that its diameter has increased by more than the permitted 20 millimeters.
• Drum pulley play. Inspect the drum "wheel" and wiggle it from side to side. A mounting bolt may be loose, and tightening it will fix the problem. Sometimes, replacing the component is the only solution.
• Insufficient motor mounting. The washing machine vibrates intermittently during a cycle. This vibration causes various components, including the motor, to loosen. The motor becomes loose, which can cause belt drive problems. To resolve this, tighten the bolts holding the unit in place.
• Pulley deformation. The drum "wheel" can become warped due to careless repairs. In some cases, you can try straightening the rim. If this doesn't help, you'll need to replace the entire component.
• Damage to the universal joint. This malfunction may be due to a manufacturing defect or vibrations generated by the equipment during operation. If the part is defective, it must be replaced. Failure to install a new element in a timely manner can lead to more serious problems, such as bearing failure.
• Damaged bearings. This problem usually manifests itself after several years of equipment operation. This condition causes the system to become "skewed." The only solution is to replace the drum rings and seal.

You can fix any problem yourself. The most frustrating situation is damage to the bearing assembly. Replacing the rings and seal requires completely disassembling the washing machine and removing the drum.

If your washing machine is still under warranty, don't try to troubleshoot the problem yourself; contact a service center immediately.

Particular attention should be paid to the selection of components. Don't try to save money by buying the cheapest parts. Choose high-quality parts recommended by the Indesit manufacturer. For this purpose, contact specialized stores.

   

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