How to replace the motor brushes in a Zanussi washing machine?

Owners of Zanussi washing machines often need to replace their motor brushes. These brushed motor components wear down, so every three to five years, their washing machine needs to be repaired. You can do this yourself, without the help of a professional. Let's figure out how.

We remove the back half of the case

To safely disassemble a Zanussi washing machine, you'll need to move it to a spacious room. Repairing it in a cramped bathroom is inconvenient; you'll need at least 3-4 square meters of free space. Before starting work Be sure to turn off the power to the washing machine and disconnect it from the water supply and sewerage system. Prepare a screwdriver and several bits of different diameters.

The further algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• Find a special screw on the bottom right side of the case; it's covered by a cap. Remove the screw with a screwdriver. Repeat the same procedure for the left side panel.
• Unscrew the two bolts holding the top cover of the machine. They are located at the back;
• remove the "top";
• disconnect the drain hose attached to the back of the machine;
• Unhook the semicircular housing element (the power cord passes through it) from the rear panel. To do this, bend the tab;
• Remove the screws that secure the back panel of the case. They are located at the top, two on each side panel;
• remove the back of the machine.

This is how easy it is to disassemble the body of a Zanussi washing machine. The process is usually straightforward. Now all that's left to do is remove the motor to access the worn brushes.

We unscrew the motor of the CM Zanussi

Once the back panel is removed, you'll see the tank, pulley, and tensioned drive belt (the rubber band on the "wheel" must be removed). Now all that's left is to unscrew the electric motor. To easily remove the motor-retaining bolts, it's best to tilt the machine forward and lean it against a wall.

When viewed from the rear of a Zanussi washing machine, the motor is located in the lower right corner. The motor is attached to the front of the drum with two screws, which need to be removed. There are also a pair of bolts located on the rear of the element. To access them, it's best to use a drill bit extension.

Once the 4 retaining bolts have been removed, the motor can be pulled towards you and will be in your hands.

Removing the rear screws can be tricky, but a special metal extension for a cordless screwdriver will help.

We replace worn parts

The engine is finally removed. New components will need to be prepared for further work. You can purchase replacement brushes at specialized stores by telling the manager the model and serial number of your washing machine. Zanussi.

Now you need to remove the worn brushes from the motor. The procedure is as follows:

• turn the electric motor on its side and unscrew the fixing bolts;
• Find the electric brushes. They are located on the sides of the motor housing;
• Press the existing lever with a screwdriver and remove the brushes one by one.

It is important to remember which way the carbon rod is beveled - if it is installed incorrectly, the engine will spark.

Now it's time to inspect the components. If the protruding "carbon" is less than half a centimeter, then the problem is indeed with the brushes. If it's not significantly worn down, the problem is likely due to something else.

To install new brushes, sand the engine surface with fine-grit sandpaper and wipe it with a rag. Then, screw on the new, serviceable brushes, observing the correct position of the beveled corner.

Be sure to replace the brushes in pairs, even if only one carbon rod is worn down and the other is perfectly fine. This is to prevent the machine from acting up again in the near future.

If replacing the entire brush assembly, meaning the brushes in the special housing, is not possible, only the carbon projection itself can be replaced. The procedure is as follows:

• disassemble the plastic body of the brush by manually dividing the shell in half;
• remove the worn plate using a soldering iron, take out and straighten the spring;
  
• Take a new brush and measure its length. It should match the size of the plastic case;
  
• clean the contacts, straighten the wire, coat the metal with tin and insert a new carbon, using the bronze guide as a guide;
• Solder the wires and assemble the case.

Once the new brushes are installed and secured, you can reinstall the motor and reassemble the machine housing. The procedure is performed in reverse order. The key is to tighten the fasteners securely and refer to the photos and videos taken during disassembly of the Zanussi washing machine.

The final stage of the repair is checking the machine for proper operation. Run the "Spin" or "Express Wash" program and listen carefully. It's normal for the machine to make some noise for the first few minutes until the new brushes are properly seated. If no knocking or cracking sounds are heard throughout the entire cycle, the replacement and installation have been completed correctly.

How to "extend the life" of brushes?

You can't completely avoid replacing the motor brushes on Zanussi washing machines. These components are subject to natural wear and tear, so it's normal to need to service them 5-7 years after purchasing the appliance.

To avoid shortening the lifespan of your electric motor brushes, meaning they don't wear out in a couple of years, it's important to follow some recommendations.

1. Buy high-quality replacement parts. Don't install used brushes. Always purchase new components that are compatible with your specific Zanussi washing machine model. It's best to use genuine factory parts rather than generic replacements made for other brands.
2. Be sure to perform the replacement symmetrically. Carbon brushes of an electric motor are always replaced in pairs, even when one of the rods is intact.
3. After repairs, use your washing machine with special care for about a month. For the first 12-15 washes, only fill the drum halfway, as the new brushes need to "adapt" to the machine.
4. Check the parts every 6-8 months. This will help you catch the moment when the carbon wears down to the critical 1.5 cm mark.
5. Monitor your machine. If you notice signs of faulty brushes, such as the machine "sticking," unusual noises during operation, a burning smell, or insufficient spin, immediately check the motor and repair the unit.

Replacing motor brushes is entirely possible at home. The key is to carefully follow the instructions, observe safety precautions, and purchase high-quality new components suitable for your specific Zanussi washing machine model.

   

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