How to repair a washing machine drum that won’t rotate properly?

 

Problem Identification and Initial Checks

 

Before delving into detailed inspection or repairs, you should first carefully diagnose the main issue with your washing machine drum. Several symptoms indicate issues with drum rotation, such as strange noises, slow spinning, or complete inability to turn. Begin by observing the behavior carefully. Does it rotate during a wash cycle but fails during a spin cycle, or does it not rotate at all throughout the entire process?

Check the following initial points:

• Power Supply:

  Make sure the washing machine is properly plugged in and receiving electricity. A loose or faulty power connection can prevent the drum from spinning.

• Overload Issue:

  Inspect the drum contents. Overloading the washer can put excessive strain on the drum, preventing it from rotating properly. Remove excess clothing and try running a smaller load.

• Uneven Loading:

  Ensure clothing is evenly distributed within the drum, avoiding heavy items grouped together, which can hinder balanced spinning.

 

Mechanical Examination and Troubleshooting

 

If initial checks fail to resolve the issue, mechanical troubleshooting can help pinpoint the exact cause. Make sure you unplug the washing machine from the power source before commencing any inspection or repairs to guarantee safety.

• Inspect the Drive Belt:

  The washing machine's drum relies on a drive belt connected to the motor to rotate. A damaged, loose, worn, or misaligned drive belt can lead to impaired drum movement.
  
  • Open the washer back panel or bottom access panel, depending on your model, to gain visibility of the drive belt.
  • Check the belt for wear, cracks, or looseness. Replace it if required, ensuring it's mounted correctly over the pulleys.

• Pulley System Check:

  A spinning drum is controlled largely by pulleys. Carefully inspect the pulleys for signs of damage or wear. Loose or damaged pulleys can restrict proper rotation.
  • Remove access panels to observe the pulley condition and ensure proper alignment and fitting.
  • Tighten loose parts or replace damaged pulleys where necessary.

• Motor and Motor Coupling:

  A compromised or faulty motor or coupling mechanism can also cripple drum rotation.
  
  • Visually inspect the coupling near the motor for signs of wear or breakage.
  • Test the motor's continuity with a multimeter. If it shows no continuity, replacement might be necessary.

 

Bearing and Drum Support Maintenance

 

If your washing machine is making grinding, loud, or squeaky noises and struggling to rotate, the drum bearings could be failing. Replacing drum bearings is a complex task usually requiring disassembling the drum, which entails detailed and careful work.

• Detecting Faulty Bearings:

  Manually rotate the drum (with the washer off and unplugged). Any resistance accompanied by grinding or scraping noises likely indicates bearing issues.

• Replacing Drum Bearings:

  • Disconnect the drum from the washing machine body, usually accessible from either the back panel or top panel.
  • Remove belts and pulley wheels to reveal the drum bearings.
  • Carefully replace faulty bearings, ensuring they are fitted securely into position and properly lubricated.
  • Reassemble the washing machine, diligently checking parts for security and alignment.

• Support and Suspension Components:

  Check the drum suspension components (springs, dampers or suspension rods) to ensure they are not broken, loose or misaligned. If needed, tighten or replace faulty suspension parts.

 

Electrical and Control Board Check

 

Sometimes, electrical faults can inhibit drum rotation. Washing machines depend on electrical signals to activate motor operations.

• Lid Switch or Door Lock Sensor:

  Malfunctioning lid switches or door locks prevent the washing machine from properly spinning to maintain safety standards.
  
  • Inspect switches and locking mechanisms. Test continuity and replace defective components.

• Control Board Issues:

  A fault in the main control board might result in improper drum commands during cycles.
  
  • Run diagnostics (if applicable to your model) according to manufacturer instructions.
  • If no basic fixes solve the problem, consult professional help as the control board might require repair or replacement.

 

Consulting Professional Services

 

While some washing machine drum problems can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting and repairs, more complicated issues like motor problems, control boards, or bearing replacements frequently require professional expertise. Don't hesitate to reach out to professional appliance repair experts, especially if you encounter ongoing difficulties or lack the necessary tools, knowledge, or safety experience to perform complex repairs.

Expert appliance technicians are trained to quickly identify and repair underlying problems, ensuring personal safety and long-term appliance performance. Reputable providers, such as those serving homeowners in cities like St. Louis and Nashville, have the specialized training, professional tools, and ready access to specific parts necessary to efficiently restore your washing machine's functionality.

Following these detailed troubleshooting tips and consulting professionals as needed will help resolve washing machine drum rotation issues effectively and aid in maintaining your appliance's longevity.