How to tighten the shipping bolts on a washing machine?

The transport bolts on a washing machine are designed to secure the drum during movement. Once the appliance is in its proper place in the owner's home, they are removed to ensure the appliance can function properly. However, sometimes situations arise when the bolts need to be replaced. By following certain guidelines, this is easy.

Installation of bolts

Installing the shipping bolts is a simple task, but if done carelessly, it can cause damage to the drum. To secure the bolt, it must fit precisely into a special hole hidden in the wall of the washing machine's housing, so getting it right the first time isn't always easy. Often, installers miss the mark and bump the end of the bolt against the wall of the stainless steel or plastic drum. If they apply even a little more pressure than necessary, a crack will form in the drum, leading to leaks and subsequent, more serious problems.

A plug on the transport bolt makes this task easier. It's made of rubber or plastic and provides additional protection for the tank's material. The plug fits snugly and easily into a small hole in the rear wall of the housing and also serves as a guide for the screw. If the plugs are not preserved, it is better not to reinstall the transport bolts.

However, there's a popular method—a life hack—that allows you to perform the procedure even without the original factory attachments. They can be replaced with wine corks of the appropriate size, which should first be screwed into the bolt, and then inserted into the housing. Once the screw is in place, tighten it firmly using the 10 to 15 mm wrench included with the appliance.

What are bolts for?

Unlike other household appliances, a washing machine's structure is more fragile and prone to damage during transportation. This is due to the machine's drum—it's suspended, and its attachment to other components is quite symbolic: shock absorbers and a counterweight (special weight) prevent excessive vibration during intensive operation. However, if transported improperly, this can cause damage to the machine.

If the appliance is handled carelessly during transport, subjected to significant jolts, bumps, or vehicle vibrations, the unsecured drum will constantly bang against the washing machine body. This will damage not only the drum itself but also other components. Transport bolts help prevent these consequences: they secure the moving part of the washing machine and prevent damage to internal components during transit.

What are the dangers of using a washing machine with screws?

Every washing machine's operating instructions contain a warning against operating the machine with the transport bolts installed. The basic principle of household appliances is the rotation of the drum within the tub, and if the tub is locked in place, not only will the washing quality suffer, but the machine itself will also malfunction. During intensive drum operation—washing or spinning—a tub locked to the machine body will damage the shock-absorbing system, shaft, bearings, and all other components.

Also, operating a washing machine with the drum fixed in place is the main cause of the appliance jumping around the room where it is installed, which leads to broken furniture, plumbing, chipped tiles, and other similar damage.

The longer the unit operates in this mode, the more dire the consequences will be for both the machine and nearby objects.

If installing the appliance without the assistance of a professional, carefully read the "Installation" section of the operating instructions. This section provides all instructions on how to properly prepare the washing machine for use, including removing the transport bolts. If the bolts are not removed, the machine will notify you in the following ways:

• increased vibration levels;
• with sharp jumps and jerking movements;
• sounds that are not typical for a washing machine: creaking, grinding, etc.

In this situation, you should immediately stop the appliance by pressing the "Stop" button and unplugging it. Then, be sure to call a technician to inspect the appliance and determine the presence and nature of any damage. Please note that damage resulting from operating the appliance with the transport boots still attached is not covered by the warranty, so you will have to pay for any repairs yourself.

   

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