How to replace a washing machine actuator?

A worn-out activator in a semi-automatic washing machine is a case where you can skip the call of a specialist and repair it yourself. This type of machine is quite simple. Replacing the activator in a washing machine is a simple procedure that can be done at home.

Purpose of this part

What is the activator in a semi-automatic washing machine, and what is its purpose? It's a plastic disc with special blades on the front. It can vary in size in different models. It's installed at the bottom of the tub or on the side of the drum, allowing it to rotate. When the washing machine starts, this part "activates" the wash cycle: the laundry begins to agitate, spin, and shake in the drum. The activator prevents items from clumping together, improving washing quality.

In automatic washing machines, a similar function is performed by "ribbers" located on the drum surface. They also prevent the formation of a ball in the centrifuge by shaking it.

Important! The activator replacement process depends on whether the part is installed horizontally or vertically.

On machines like Malutka, Otrada, Samara

A common feature of these models is the location of the activator on the drum wall. Experienced mechanics note that disassembling Soviet-era devices with standard modern wrenches is nearly impossible. Finding the right tool for sale is no easy task. Therefore, it's best to make one yourself.

To design a special key for the "Malutka" washing machine, you need to prepare:

• a tube whose diameter should be 15 cm larger than that of the activator;
• several bolts, nuts;
• drill with a diameter of 6 mm.

A custom-made wrench will significantly simplify and speed up your work. It requires minimal preparation time. The tool can be designed as follows:

• take a tube, make two holes in it so that the distance between them is 9.5 cm.
• Insert the bolts. They should protrude 1–1.5 cm from the back of the tube.
• tighten the nuts.

Using this key, you can begin replacing the actuator in a semi-automatic washing machine. To remove it correctly, you must follow a specific sequence of steps. The procedure is as follows:

• disconnect the equipment from the power supply;
• remove the plug on the side of the washing machine;
• rotate the disk so that the holes on the housing wall and on the impeller align;
• take a screwdriver and use it to lock the engine rotor;
• Use the prepared key to unscrew the actuator. Depending on the model, you may have to turn it in different directions.

Once the worn part has been removed, you can install the new disc. The procedure should be reversed. Lastly, connect the washing machine to the power supply.

Cars Fairy, Ivushka, Mini-Vyatka

Compared to previous models, the "Fairy," "Ivushka," and "Mini-Vyatka" models have a slightly more complex design. This feature must be taken into account when replacing the activator. The disc in these models rotates via a belt drive mechanism, similar to the design of automatic washing machines with a commutator motor. To remove the activator yourself, follow these steps:

• turn off the power;
• loosen the screws that hold the motor;
• remove the belt from the pulley;
• unscrew the nut that secures the pulley;
• Remove the stopper first, then the activator.

When replacing a part, please note that the maximum allowable distance between the tank and the activator is 2 mm.

Along the axis, the part can shift by no more than 0.5 mm. Precise adjustment ensures correct and trouble-free operation of the device.

Semi-automatic machines such as Raduga or Renova

These models are compact in size. The actuator is located on the side. To replace it, you need to:

• disconnect the washing machine from the power supply;
• remove the panel from the back of the case;
• unscrew the bolt that holds the pulley and remove this part;
• remove the disk, install a new one.

Next, replace the pulley and tighten the drive belt. The final step is to reassemble the washing machine body and connect it. This job usually takes no more than 20 minutes.

Removing the activator on a Daewoo

Deo's semi-automatic models are activator-based machines with a drum. This drum is not removed when changing the rim. The rim is removed from the machine, and then proceed as follows:

• Using a socket wrench, unscrew the nut that secures the activator and is located at the bottom of the tank;
• pry the part up with a thin screwdriver and take it out.

When installing a new activator, repeat the steps in reverse order. It's best to replace a worn part in this type of model with a partner, who can hold the drum steady to prevent it from rotating.

   

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