How to remove the actuator of a semi-automatic washing machine?

What should I do if the actuator on my semi-automatic washing machine wears out? Should I call a technician? These washing machines are quite simple, and you can replace the element yourself at home. Let's figure out how to do it correctly.

What is this element for?

To remove the activator from a semi-automatic washing machine, you need to understand what it is. It's a special plastic disk installed on the wall or bottom of the washing machine's drum. After the cycle starts, it begins to rotate and spin the laundry, "activating" the wash.

The activator is an integral element of a semi-automatic washing machine, which ensures “mixing” and shaking of the laundry in the “centrifuge”.

There are special blades on the “front” surface of the plastic disk. Activators may come in different sizes, but their task is the same – to mix things in the tank.Thanks to it, the laundry does not get lumpy and is washed better.

In automatic washing machines, the activator function is performed by "ribbers" located on the drum surface. Their purpose is the same: to prevent clothes from clumping and to "shake" the items being washed. In semi-automatic washing machines, activators can be positioned vertically or horizontally. Depending on the location of the disc, the removal process will differ. Let's look at each situation separately.

Type SM-1

In these semiautomatic machines, the activator is mounted on the wall of the centrifuge. This applies to the following machines: "Malutka," "Samara," and "Otrada." To disassemble a Soviet-era washing machine, it's best to make a special key yourself. This tool will make removing the disc easier.

Finding a key suitable for disassembling Soviet semiautomatic rifles is virtually impossible, as each activator requires its own tool. That's why it's best to design a custom key. Moreover, such a homemade project doesn't take much time. For example, to make a key for a "Malutka," you'll need:

• tube (15 cm larger than the diameter of the “activator” disk);
• 6mm drill bit;
• a couple of bolts and nuts.

To construct a key:

• Drill two holes in the tube. They should be 9.5 cm apart;
• insert the bolts so that one to one and a half centimeters of them “stick out” from the back side;
• secure the elements with nuts.

The key has been constructed, and now it can be used to remove the activator. The procedure is as follows:

• de-energize the washing machine;
• remove the plug from the side of the washing machine;
• rotate the disk by hand until the holes on the impeller and the housing wall align;
• lock the engine rotor with a screwdriver;
• Insert the homemade key into the activator and unscrew the element.

The direction in which the disc rotates depends on the specific model of the semiautomatic machine. After removing the old part, install the new activator. Reassembly is performed in reverse order.

Option SM-1.5

The design of these washing machines is somewhat more complex. These include the "Fairy," "Ivushka," and "Mini-Vyatka" machines. Here, the plastic disc is driven by a belt drive mechanism, similar to those found on automatic machines with a brushed motor. The actuator can be removed as follows:

• Unplug the machine's power cord from the wall outlet;
• loosen the screws holding the motor;
• remove the belt from the pulley;
• unscrew the nut securing the pulley;
• remove the stopper;
• take out the activator.

When changing the activator, keep in mind that the distance between the disk and the tank should be no more than 2 mm.

The activator can be moved along its axis by no more than 0.5 mm. Proper adjustment of the element is crucial for proper operation of the equipment.

Type SM-2

The main distinguishing feature of these models is their compact size. They can wash a maximum of 2.5 kg of dry laundry per cycle. The actuator on these semi-automatic machines is located on the side. The procedure for removing the part is as follows:

• disconnect the power from the machine;
• remove the back panel of the case;
• remove the drive belt;
• remove the pulley by unscrewing the bolt holding it;
• remove the "activator" disk.

The new part is installed in its original location. Next, the pulley is replaced, the drive belt is tightened, and the machine body is reassembled. Replacing the activator takes 15-20 minutes.

Activator with drum

Many people think that drum-operated machines don't exist. However, some models do, such as Deo semiautomatics. Let's figure out how to remove the drum. You don't have to remove the drum itself; simply remove the rim—you'll need to work with the clamps to do this. Next:

• Unscrew the nut securing the activator. The fastener is located at the bottom of the tank, so it's easiest to remove it with a socket wrench;
• Use a thin screwdriver to pry up the activator and remove it from the drum along with the washer.

The new part is installed in reverse order. In this case, it's difficult to complete the job alone; it's best to have an assistant. You'll need to hold the drum steady while unscrewing the nut to prevent it from rotating. You can stop the centrifuge with a block, but this poses a safety risk to the machine.

   

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