How to change shock absorbers on a washing machine?

A sign that the shock absorbers need replacing is strong vibration of the washing machine while it's running. The machine will literally "jump" around the room, especially during the spin cycle. What should you do in this case? You can replace the shock absorbers in your washing machine yourself. You don't need to call a professional for repairs. Let's look at how to check the components and replace them if necessary.

Checking and removing broken shock absorbers

If you notice that the machine starts shaking during operation, first check the damping elements. All shock absorbers are located inside the housing; to inspect them, you will have to partially disassemble the washing machine. Different brands of machines have different dampers mounted differently. Let's figure out which side to access your "home helper" to find the necessary parts.

To replace the shock absorbers on a Bosch washing machine, you need to remove the front panel. These machines have standard shock absorbers mounted on a single screw located underneath the machine. The upper shock absorbers are secured with several latches that are part of the plastic drum.

To detach the damper from the tank, you need to drill out the fastener. After that, the element can be removed from the machine through the front. It's important to proceed carefully to avoid damaging the plastic tank with the tool.

Owners of LG automatic washing machines will have it even easier: to check and replace the shock absorbers, you don't even have to disassemble the body of your "home helper." All you need to do is:

• de-energize the washing machine;
• disconnect the machine from the water supply and sewerage system;
• carefully lay the machine on its side;
• find the damper mounts;
• Unclip the latches and pull the shock absorbers out of the holes one by one.

Samsung washing machines typically use 8 or 10 mm bolts to secure the shock absorber system components. To remove them, use open-end or socket wrenches. In Whirlpool washing machines, the shock absorbers can be removed by simply releasing special latches.

Shock absorber mounting bolts are also used in Miele, AEG, and many other washing machines. This type of installation is usually straightforward. Removing the damping elements is easy, using the appropriate wrench size.

When removing dampers, regardless of how they are attached, do so carefully, without using impact tools. This will protect the tank and internal components from damage.

To check the shock absorber, press on the piston rod and pull it out of the housing. Normally, there should be sufficient resistance to manual compression. A freely moving piston rod will indicate that the damper needs to be replaced.

If the piston rod fits loosely into the shock absorber housing, or sometimes even falls out, or if there's no lubrication inside the "casing" and/or rusty stains are present, the components are likely worn out. Replacing the dampers shouldn't be put off, as the machine's "jumping" during operation can lead to more serious damage.

Replacement of damaged damping elements

When replacing shock absorbers, it's best to use original components with identical specifications. If the desired brand of shock absorber is unavailable, or requires purchasing online and waiting a month or two for delivery, alternatives from other manufacturers are acceptable. When choosing shock absorbers, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Their resistance. This value is usually indicated on the damper body. This is a specific value in Newtons and can range from 80 to 120 N;
• The distance from one mounting axis to the other. This should be measured with the shock absorber spring fully compressed;
• Mounting type. Some shock absorbers are secured with special latches. In other cases, the dampers are held in the housing with screws. Typically, these are M10 or M8 bolts.

Having purchased shock absorbers with similar characteristics, it's easy to "convert" the mounts and install the new dampers in the washing machine. Replacement is done in reverse order. Once finished, run a test wash and observe the machine. The vibrations should stop.

   

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