DIY instructions for replacing shock absorbers on an LG washing machine
Washing machines experience significant centrifugal force during the washing process, and especially during spinning. Shock absorbers - devices located under the drum - help smooth out vibration and compensate for shaking.
When these parts wear out, the washing process, and even more so the spinning process, becomes unsafe for the internal structure of the machine, and therefore requires timely replacement.
We will tell you below how to replace shock absorbers on an LG washing machine with your own hands.
Content
Why does the breakdown occur?
Shock absorbers in a washing machine become unusable as a result of prolonged use, as well as due to violations of the rules for using the equipment.
Most often this contributes to:
- regular drum overload;
- spin setting (especially at high speeds) when washing shoes;
- incorrect installation of the washing machine itself;
- long term intensive service.
But simply based on the noise, and even the rumble during washing, it is impossible to make an unambiguous conclusion about the breakdown of the shock absorbers. Similar “symptoms” may be present with other types of failures, for example, with crumbling bearings.
To make sure that the reason for the abnormal operation of the washing machine is worn shock absorbers, the device must be partially disassembled. Such work should be carried out only after disconnecting the machine from the network.
There are two of these parts in the washing machine. The shock absorbers are located under the drum, in the corners. Their task is to dampen vibrations and prevent the tank from contacting other parts during rotation.
Reducing the load on the nodes adjacent to the drum is achieved by the shock absorbers taking the load on themselves. As a result, natural physical wear and tear occurs.
How to check the condition of parts?
Dampers (shock absorbers) work in conjunction with suspension springs, which hold the tank with the drum on top. The damper works based on the piston principle, which takes the load from the tank onto itself.
If the drum begins to move with a large amplitude during washing, the tank hits the body and other parts, this is always accompanied by noise and rocking of the entire machine that is uncharacteristic for a washing machine.
To verify the condition of the dampers, and, if necessary, to replace them, you need to partially disassemble the device. The machine must first be disconnected from all communications.
Top loading washing machine
Damage to the dampers can be diagnosed by the specific noise during washing that comes from inside the machine. Check the condition of the shock absorbers The following actions will help:
- Press the top of the drum without excessive force. If resistance is not felt, and after the hand is removed the drum dangles, a replacement is needed.
- The drum rotates with a creak.
- The drum should be accessed from the rear cover. You need to press the tank with your hand and quickly release it. The container should bounce and lock into place if the shock absorbers are working properly.
From horizontal
Front loading The verification algorithm will be slightly different:
- Open the top cover.
- Press the top of the tank with your hand and observe the behavior of the rubber cuff of the hatch. If it becomes wrinkled, the shock absorbers need to be replaced.
How to remove and change?
For repairs, you will need new dampers (they can only be replaced in pairs), pliers and screwdrivers. The part is removed by unscrewing the top latch using a screwdriver.
Repairs are carried out by partially disassembling the washing machine. To do this, disconnect the communications and remove the outer covers, opening free access to the internal structure of the washing machine.
Procedure:
- the top and back panels are held in place by screws - they should be unscrewed;
- from the rear of the washing machine, gain access to the shock absorbers - they are located at an angle under the tank;
- check their status by pressing;
- pull out the clips and remove the part.
Installation is carried out by inserting a gasket into the damper spring and installing the part itself. Fastening with a bolt completes the installation.
The video will show you how to replace shock absorbers on an LG washing machine:
Where can I buy new dampers, at what price?
You can buy new parts to replace worn ones at specialized sales points and on the Internet. The cost depends on the place of purchase and manufacturer. On average, a pair of shock absorbers will cost 600 rubles.
You need to select a new part in accordance with the model of your washing machine, focusing on the model. Also, detailed information on the operating resistance of the part can be found on the body of the dampers themselves after they have been removed.
Calling a professional: how to avoid falling for scammers, how much does the work cost?
In the event that it is not possible to carry out repairs yourself, You can contact a company specializing in servicing household appliances. Such companies are widely represented on the Internet.
Before calling a specialist, you can check the prices for the work of the masters and look for reviews of the company on the Internet. Firms that have been working in the service market for years try to maintain their reputation and fulfill orders with high quality.
The cost of work depends on the complexity of the breakdown. If other repairs need to be done in addition to replacing the shock absorbers, the price will be higher.
On average, replacing shock absorbers in the capital will cost from 2,900 rubles and will take up to 1.5 hours. If the client does not have new parts, the dispatcher should be notified about this when registering the technician’s call. In this case, the cost of shock absorbers will be paid separately.
After completing the work and reassembling the washing machine, the technician performs a test run and issues a warranty.
Conclusion
Replacing shock absorbers on an LG washing machine is a moderately complex repair that, with some skills, can be done even on your own.
In a situation where there is no time or opportunity to repair the machine yourself, it is better to call a specialist from a specialized company. Repair of dampers should not be put off until later, since when using a washing machine with damaged shock absorbers, the likelihood of more serious breakdowns increases.
