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 at least one of the parts, you will hear a strong vibration during the washing process, and especially when spinning. In this article, we describe 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 created by the device, thereby ensuring a quiet and reliable operation of the unit. However, in the event of a malfunction, the use of such equipment becomes not only uncomfortable for the hostess, but also unsafe.

Device

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

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

Important! Appearance shock absorbers until recently was identical, but with the development of technology, some manufacturers replace the return spring system of a number of springs. They are installed in the upper area of ​​the tank, "suspending" it. Such kind of shock absorbers for washing machines are called "dampers".These details differ by greater durability and better vibration damping.

Causes of failure

The main reason for wear of shock absorbers during the operation of the washing machine from any manufacturer is associated with the loss of the nominal force. Often, first of all, the technical gasket that is between the piston and the cylinder breaks down. Due to the wiping of the gasket, the parts themselves are 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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Symptoms of shock absorber

The most common problem is precisely 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 occurs. The presence of a malfunction can be determined by the following external features:

• During the washing, methodical drum impacts on the walls of the washing machine are audible.
• The engine belt often falls off.
• Gaining momentum during the spin, the machine starts to jump and shift from the usual location.

Noticing at least one of the above signs of shock absorbers on the washing machine, think about their repair or replacement.

Important! If any part of the cushioning system fails, it is not recommended to use the technique, because this insignificant and easily repairable malfunction, in the absence of proper attention, can lead to malfunctioning of the entire machine.

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Removing shock absorbers

Before repairing or replacing shock absorbers for a LG washing machine and other manufacturers, remove the shock absorbers and check their suitability. In order to ensure that the problem is precisely in the failure of the damping system, remove them from the body of the washing machine. In some models, you can put the machine on its side and open the bottom access to the shock absorbers.

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

1. To begin, disconnect the equipment from the power supply to avoid electric shock.
2. Unscrew the fixing bolts that are on the rear of the equipment and remove the top cover of the washing machine.
3. Remove the powder containers, as well as the drain protection panel.
4. Then unscrew the bolts and carefully remove the control panel.

Important! Do not forget that the control panel is connected to the machine by a lot of wires. Wiring has a certain length limit, allowing you to place it nearby, without completely disconnecting it.

1. Remove the cuff from the front of the washing machine and refill it in the tank.
2. The final stage will be to unscrew the bolts from the top and bottom of the device, because they fix the front wall of the machine and hide access to the shock absorbers.

To remove the shock absorber from the housing, unscrew the bolt located in its lower part. After you have managed to remove the shock absorbers, check their suitability for operation. 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 apply pressure to the shock absorber, then it can be concluded that it is in good working order. It is necessary to replace the cushioning mechanism in the case when it is compressed and straightened without special efforts on your part.

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Replacement of shock absorbers

In order to carry out repair of the washing machine with your own hands, in theory, it would be enough to replace the failed component of the shock absorber. However, spare parts for repair are not produced by manufacturers, since replacing a certain part does not guarantee the good performance of the whole unit.

Manufacturers of washing machines in case of a malfunction in the cushioning system recommend not to repair individual parts, but to make a complete replacement of the part.

How to replace the damper?

To replace an unusable damper, remove it from the body of the washing machine. In this case, take into account such features:

1. In some modern models it is fixed not with a bolt at the bottom, but with a special snap-lock plastic lock.
2. In this regard, if you did not find the bolt from below, then from the rear, feel the bulge of the lock and press it inward.
3. If the locking pin can not be removed, then lubricate it with machine oil.

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

How do I replace the shock absorber?

The shock absorber can be fixed in several ways - vertically or according to a certain angle of inclination. One side 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 different manufacturers, whether Bosch, LG, Samsung, Indesit, Ardo, etc., uses its own individual type of shock absorbers.

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

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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 washing machines that repair the company that also deal with the sale of original components to the units of certain manufacturers. Also, a significant advantage of the service center is the possibility of obtaining professional advice.

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