Shock absorbers for washing machines

Special springs and shock absorbers for washing machines protect the tank from excessive vibrations and destruction during operation. In the event of a malfunction of at least one of the parts, you will hear strong vibration during the washing process, and especially during the spin cycle. In this article we will talk about the structure of the washing machine and how to troubleshoot the shock absorber.

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What is a shock absorber and why is it needed?

The shock absorbers of the washing machine are attached to the bottom of the tank and absorb the vibrations generated by the device, thereby ensuring quiet and reliable operation of the unit. However, in case of malfunctions, the use of such equipment becomes not only inconvenient for the hostess, but also unsafe.

Device

Any shock absorber on the washing machine consists of the following components:

• stock;
• cylinder;
• piston;
• technical gasket installed between the piston and the cylinder;
• return spring;
• mounting bushings.

Important! The appearance of the shock absorbers until recently was identical, but with the development of technology, some manufacturers are replacing the return spring with a system of a number of springs. They are installed in the upper area of ​​the tank, “hanging” it. Such shock absorbers for washing machines are called “dampers”. These parts are distinguished by greater durability and better damping of vibrations.

Breakdown reasons

The main reason for shock absorber wear during operation of the washing machine from any manufacturer is associated with the loss of nominal force. Often, in the first place, the technical gasket, which is located between the piston and the cylinder, fails. Due to wiping the gasket, the parts themselves become deformed.

Installation methods

Depending on the model of the washing machine and the manufacturer, the shock absorber can be installed in the following ways:

• horizontally;
• vertically.

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Shock Absorber Symptoms

Most often, the malfunction is observed precisely in the wear of the gasket between the piston and the cylinder, but also the wear of the cylinder itself, breakage or bending of the damper are found. The presence of a malfunction can be determined by the following external signs:

• During washing, methodical drum beats are heard on the walls of the washing machine.
• Often there is a fall in the engine belt.
• Gaining speed during the spin cycle, the machine starts to jump and move from its usual location.

Having noticed at least one of the above signs of a shock absorber malfunction on the washing machine, think about repairing them or replacing them.

Important! If any of the parts of the shock-absorbing system breaks down, it is not recommended to use equipment, because this minor and easily fixable malfunction, in the absence of proper attention, can lead to malfunction of the entire machine.

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Shock Absorber Removal

Before starting repair or replacing shock absorbers for the LG washing machine and other manufacturers, shock absorbers must be removed and their suitability checked. In order to make sure that the problem is precisely in the breakdown of the shock-absorbing system, remove them from the housing of the washing machine. In some models, you can put the machine on its side and open below the access to shock absorbers.

For some models of washing equipment, removing the shock absorber is quite troublesome, since it is supposed to remove the front case wall. To solve this problem, stick to the following algorithm:

1. First, unplug the equipment to avoid electric shock.
2. Unscrew the fixing bolts that are on the rear plane of the equipment and remove the top cover of the washing machine.
3. Remove the powder containers as well as the drain filter protector.
4. Next, unscrew the bolts and carefully remove the control panel.

Important! Do not forget that the control panel is connected to the machine with many wires. The wiring has a certain length limit, allowing you to place it nearby without completely disconnecting.

5. Remove the cuff from the front of the washing machine that needs to be inserted inside the tank.
6. The final step will be to loosen the bolts from the upper and lower parts of the device, because it is they that fix the front wall of the machine and hide access to shock absorbers.

To remove the shock absorber from the body, unscrew the bolt located in its lower part. Once you have managed to remove the shock absorbers, check their suitability for use. To do this, just press on it with your hand, allowing the mechanism to shrink and straighten.

Important! If it is difficult for you to press on the shock absorber, then we can conclude that it is in a completely working condition. The shock-absorbing mechanism should be replaced when it is compressed and straightened without any special efforts on your part.

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Shock Absorber Replacement

In order to repair the washing machine with your own hands, theoretically, it would be enough to replace the failed shock absorber component. However, spare parts for repairs by manufacturers are not available, since the replacement of a particular part does not guarantee the good operation of the entire unit.

In the event of a malfunction in the shock-absorbing system, manufacturers of washing machines recommend not to repair individual parts, but to make a complete replacement of the part.

How to replace a damper?

To replace a damper that has become unusable, remove it from the washing machine housing. In doing so, take into account such features:

1. In some modern models, it is mounted not with a bolt in the lower part, but due to a special snap-lock made of plastic.
2. In this regard, if you did not find a bolt from below, then feel behind the bulge of the lock and push it inside.
3. If the locking pin cannot be removed, lubricate it with engine oil.

Important! The new part should be inserted, having done all the operations in the reverse order.

How to replace the shock absorber?

The shock absorber can be fixed in several ways - vertically or according to a certain angle of inclination. One of the sides of the part is attached to the body of the washing machine, and the other is attached to the machine drum.

Important! Each model of such equipment from various manufacturers, whether Bosch, LG, Samsung, Indesit, Ardo, etc., uses its own individual type of shock absorbers.

Therefore, before buying a new part in a service center, take a sample of the original component with you. If one shock absorber from a pair is damaged, both parts will have to be replaced to ensure full operation of the machine.

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Where to buy shock absorbers for a washing machine?

It is best to buy shock absorbers in specialized service centers, and not in the market. After all, it is the companies that carry out the repair of washing machines that are also involved in the sale of original components for units of certain manufacturers. Another significant advantage of the service center is the possibility of obtaining professional advice.

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Stock footage

We sincerely hope that the recommendations presented in this article for replacing shock absorbers for a washing machine will help you carry out equipment repairs yourself. If you are not confident in your technical abilities, you can always contact the service center where highly qualified specialists will repair the unit competently.