How to replace the drum in an Indesit washing machine

Many problems can require replacing a washing machine drum: a broken spider, worn bearings, a hole in the tub, etc. Of course, in any of these cases, you could simply replace the machine, but that will cost you and your family money. With the help of our article, you can perform the repair yourself, even without knowing how an Indesit drum works. Let's get started!

Some preparation is required

To open and repair the car, we'll need only the most readily available tools. If you don't have something you need, try borrowing from friends or neighbors. Here's what we'll need:

• flat and Phillips screwdrivers;
• set of wrenches;
• pliers, nippers, pincers (all tools must be insulated);
• hammer.

It's recommended to gather the entire tool list provided before you begin disassembling the car. If you're worried about reassembling the car after repairs, simply take photos of the main disassembly steps, as well as fastener locations, bolt locations, wire routing, etc.

Before starting repairs, remember to disconnect the washing machine from the water supply and electricity.

Let's take it slow

Don't rush when disassembling a washing machine, as rushing will only make things worse. Since you'll be almost completely disassembling the machine, and you'll likely be doing this for the first time, be careful and follow our impromptu step-by-step instructions:

1. Position the car so it can be easily accessed from any direction. If necessary, move it to a larger room or garage.
2. Remove the top cover. First, remove all the screws from the back, then pry the cover off with a screwdriver.
3. Do the same with the back cover. Unscrew the bolts in a circle.
   
4. After this you should see the tank, pulley, motor and belt. Carefully inspect the tank: if there are traces of rust coming from the center of the unit, it is almost certainly a sign of worn bearings.
5. Remove the belt from the tank.
6. Disconnect all wires from the tank one by one.
7. Remove the bolts that hold the motor in place.
8. Look into the washing machine through the top opening—you'll see a large, rock-like piece. This piece is called the counterweight; it creates pressure on the drum and maintains the machine's balance. Remove all fasteners holding it in place using suitable tools.
9. Inspect any remaining parts that prevent the tank from being removed. These may include transport stops, the detergent drawer, etc. Remove them using screwdrivers and Allen keys.
10. The tank can be accessed from the top or bottom. Choose the most convenient method.

The bad news is that the drum in Indesit washing machines cannot be disassembled. The plastic parts are welded together, so they cannot be easily separated. You'll have to buy a new drum. Remove the drum, insert the new one, and then reverse all the steps to reassemble your washing machine.

Is it worth doing everything yourself?

It may seem like there's no need to bother with this kind of repair: it's easier to buy a new washing machine than to go through so many steps and replace the drum. However, it should be taken into account that all cars are becoming more expensive these days, so a few extra hours of your time will help you save $20–$50. The drum is just one component, albeit an important one, and you shouldn't throw out the entire machine just because of it.

The main problem here is the fact that the drum in the Indesit is non-removable. This means that even if you experience wear on the bearing assemblies (one of the most common malfunctions, as they bear a higher load than other parts of the washing machine), the drum and tub will still need to be replaced, as the bearings are contained within it.

However, private mechanics or repair shops may offer to saw the tank apart to separate it from the drum for subsequent repair (or replacement of internal components). The two halves of the plastic tank body are then glued together and a bracket is installed.

It sounds good, and you can save a fair amount of money, but there's one unfortunate fact: no one can guarantee your car will run smoothly for a long time after cutting and gluing the tank back together. Moreover, you can do this repair yourself, but you risk ruining the tank entirely with careless disassembly. So, if you want to be sure to use your car for several more years after the repair, it's best to replace the tank with a new one.

   

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