Replacing a faulty washing machine drum can seem daunting, but with some patience and the right guidance, it’s an achievable DIY project. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of replacing your washing machine drum in 10 easy-to-follow steps.
Step 1: Assess if You Need a New Drum
Before deciding to replace your washing machine drum, first determine if it actually needs replacing or if the issues could be caused by something else. Here are some signs your drum likely needs replacing:
- Loud banging, scraping, or rattling noises during the wash cycle
- Leaking water from the tub area
- Washing machine not spinning or spinning unevenly
- Scratches, cracks, or holes in the drum surface
- Damp or mildewy smells coming from the drum area
If you notice any of these issues, the drum likely needs to be replaced. Other problems like issues with drainage, the door not locking properly or the machine not turning on could potentially be fixed with simpler repairs.
Step 2: Purchase the Replacement Drum
Once you’ve determined a faulty drum is the culprit, it’s time to purchase a new one. Finding the correct replacement drum for your machine is crucial for proper installation and performance.
Follow these tips for purchasing the right drum:
- Consult your manual – Your machine’s make and model number will be listed. Search for the exact replacement part number.
- Browse online – Search for your machine’s drum using the make, model number, or serial number. Reputable appliance parts retailers will list the compatible drums.
- Visit a parts supplier – Bring your machine’s details to a trustworthy local appliance parts store and ask for assistance finding the replacement drum.
In addition to the drum itself, also pick up a new drum seal and anyfasteners or fittings required as you may need to replace these too.
Step 3: Gather the Necessary Tools and Supplies
Replacing a washing machine drum requires some special tools and supplies. Ensure you have all of these items on hand before beginning:
Essential Tools
- Safety goggles
- Work gloves
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket wrench and socket set
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Needle nose pliers
- Mallet/rubber hammer
- Flashlight
- Vacuum cleaner
- Bucket
- Towels
- Headlamp or work light
Helpful Supplies
- Replacement drum
- New drum seal
- Fasteners like hose clamps or screws
- Penetrating oil or lubricant spray
- Rags
- Duct tape
Having all these tools prepared ahead of time will make the repair process much smoother.
Step 4: Disconnect Power and Water Supply
Before working on any appliance repair, correctly disconnecting the power and water is crucial. Follow these precautions:
- Unplug the machine – Unplug the washing machine from its power outlet. This avoids electric shock risks. Also unplug any water hoses still attached.
- Turn off water valves – Locate the hot and cold water shut-off valves behind the washing machine and turn them clockwise to shut off water flow. These are likely near the water hookups or laundry room walls.
- Disconnect hoses – Unscrew any remaining water input hoses from the faucets/valves and washing machine. Drain any excess water from hoses into a bucket before fully removing.
With no power running to the machine and the water lines disconnected, it’s safe to begin your repair work.
Step 5: Remove the Control Panel and Top Panel/Lid
To access the drum housing and components, you’ll need to detach the top lid and control panel located at the back top of the washing machine. Follow these guidelines:
- The control panel is often held on with just a series of screws or clips. Use a screwdriver or needle nose pliers to remove. Detach any wires or wiring harnesses connecting the control board to the machine.
- For the lid/top panel, look for screws along the back ridge or under tabs along the side seams. Fully detach and set aside carefully.
Having both these housing components removed will allow better access inside to remove the drum.
Step 6: Remove the Front Panel
With the top open, next look to taking off the front panel – this will ultimately allow you to fully access and remove the drum. Here’s how:
- The front panel is secured on with screws, bolts or clips, usually located along the inner seam where it meets the body.
- Use an adjustable wrench, pliers or screwdriver to detach the front panel hardware and remove it.
- Carefully pull/tilt the front panel off, being cautious of any wiring or hose connections behind it. Fully detach the panel.
If needed, disconnect any wiring clips or water/drain lines still attached behind the panel. Lay a towel down underneath the exposed base to catch water. The machine drum and components should now be clearly visible.
Step 7: Remove Old Drum and Prepare the New Replacement
With full access inside the washing machine, it’s time to remove the malfunctioning drum:
Removing the Old Drum
- Examine how the drum hardware (bolts, clamps, rubber gaskets) fits into the housing and take notes/pictures if needed. Having this for reference will assist re-installation.
- Apply penetrating oil lubricant to any stubborn screws or bolts for easier removal.
- Use wrenches, pliers or screwdrivers to detach the various fasteners around the drum, like the retaining clamps and bolts around the rim and back braces.
- Slowly maneuver the drum out, being careful not to damage the housing rim. Make note of small parts or fittings that detach with the drum.
Preparing the Replacement
- Thoroughly inspect and clean the empty housing rim/tub seal areas using rags and vacuum. Remove built-up debris, dirt and cleaning out the drain tube.
- Check the new replacement drum for any cracks, dents or defects. Ensure it’s the proper make and model by comparing it to your machine’s details.
- Apply new lubricating grease/oils to any drum rollers or moving wash plate parts if applicable. Check the user manual for precise lubricant procedure. This prevents premature wear.
- Read through all provided manufacturer instructions for the new drum to understand any special installation guidelines.
With the old drum removed and new one prepped, you’re ready to install the replacement drum into the housing.
Step 8: Install New Drum Inside Housing
When seated and sealed properly, your washing machine’s drum connects securely inside the outer stainless steel tub. Follow these exact steps for proper placement:
- Carefully lower the new drum into position inside the empty drum housing cavity, aligning any notches or screw holes with the corresponding locations along the housing rim and braces.
- Replace any rubber shock absorbers mounts or gaskets that were attached to the old drum, ensuring they align properly.
- Insert any mounting bolts, clamps or screws to secure the drum tightly into place, tightening them with your wrench or screwdriver. Don’t overtighten.
- Ensure the drum sits centered inside the cavity without rubbing or scraping the sides. Spin manually to double check.
- Replace worn out tub seals if needed. Run a bead of waterproof silicone sealant around the tub seal edge for added leak protection.
Check your work by spinning the drum by hand – it should move freely with no friction or uneven wobbling motions.
Step 9: Reattach All Wiring and Water Lines
With the new drum correctly affixed inside, it’s time to hook everything back up:
- Attach any wiring harnesses or electrical control boards that were detached earlier. Secure wires neatly using zip-ties or clips if possible.
- Reconnect drain tubing or water discharge lines that were removed, securing with hose clamps.
- Attach water hoses to the corresponding hot and cold faucets/valves, then the machine hookups. Turn valves back on slowly and check for leaks.
- Verify wiring harness ground wires are connected properly to avoid shock risk. Consult diagrams in user manual if unsure.
Double check your work – all wiring should be undamaged, secured correctly, with water lines tightly sealed and leak-free before proceeding.
Step 10: Reinstall Panels and Test Operation
The last steps are finishing up by replacing all housing panels and testing for normal functionality:
- With the interior drum work complete, carefully replace the front load panel door. Align any tabs on the rim before tightly screwing the perimeter bolts back into place by hand using your adjustable wrench.
- Replace the top lid, control panel cover and any detached small vent grates or plugs. Press them securely into place by hand.
- Ensure no tools, rags or spare parts are inside the seals before fully closing up!
- Plug washing machine back into grounded outlet, turn on machine and start test cycle. Observe closely for leaks, odd noises or errors codes.
- Run a full wash cycle using only water first to verify normal spin function and rinse drainage. Then test again using towels to check for leaks and proper detergent dispensing.
Assuming no problems arise on your test runs, the drum replacement was a success! Properly dispose of your old drum. With your “new” washing machine revived, you’ve saved money over buying a replacement unit, reduced landfill waste, and discovered your own repair skills in the process!
Also Read: Tips For Preventing Laundry Damage in Your Washing Machine
Conclusion
Replacing major appliances can seem intimidating for DIY newcomers, but armed with the proper process knowledge and safety steps, you can breathe new life into your broken washing machine. Follow these 10 key steps to properly remove and install a replacement drum – and save yourself appliance repair costs along the way!
Focus on working slowly, double-checking your work, and don’t skip safety precautions like disconnecting power and water. Have patience through any troubleshooting hurdles. And don’t be afraid to call in a repair expert if you do run into issues over your head.
But with the right repair materials and determination, this project can be manageable for many handy homeowners. If you end up reviving your faulty washer, use the cost savings to treat yourself to dinner out – you’ve earned it after leveling up your DIY repair skills!