The crosspiece in the washing machine burst

The crosspiece in the washing machine burst

Using a cross, the drum is attached to the tank. During each wash, the part experiences enormous stress. Therefore, over time it may become deformed or burst. If the crosspiece in the washing machine breaks, you need to immediately replace the part. It is not advisable to try to repair it - it is not a fact that after a couple of washes, the device will not fail again. We will tell you how to get to the element and where to look for it.

Getting to the damaged crosspiece

If the drum cross has burst, you will have to replace the part. It is prohibited to operate a washing machine with such a breakdown; this can lead to complete failure of the equipment. To get to the damaged crosspiece, you need to completely disassemble the body of the automatic machine.

Also, preparing the machine for disassembly will include draining the remaining water from the system. To do this, unscrew the plug of the rubbish filter. Then collect the liquid that flows out of the hole into a basin.

What to do next? Move the home assistant away from the wall so you can access it from all sides. Further:

  • Remove the top cover of the washing machine by unscrewing a pair of bolts holding it,
  • Remove the detergent cuvette from the housing,
  • Unscrew the screws holding the control panel,
  • Release the latches securing the instrument panel wiring and remove the control panel,
  • Disconnect the lower decorative panel from the body,
  • Loosen the outer and inner clamps securing the drum cuff (by unfastening the special “lock” located on both rings),
  • Remove the rubber seal,
  • Unscrew the bolts securing the hatch-locking device,
  • Remove the locking device from the machine,
  • Unscrew the screws around the perimeter of the front wall of the case and remove the panel,
  • Disconnect the filler pipe from the tank,
  • Remove the inlet solenoid valve from the washer by unscrewing several bolts holding it,
  • Remove the counterweights (these are heavy concrete blocks designed to give the machine stability),
  • Unscrew the screws securing the rear wall of the case, move the panel to the side,
  • Remove the drive belt from the pulleys,
  • Disconnect the wiring from the heating element and the motor,
  • Unhook the pressure switch hose and the drainpipe from the tank,
  • Remove the electric motor,
  • Remove the shock-absorbing elements.

Now nothing will interfere with the removal of the tank - it will remain hanging on special hooks. It is more convenient to reach the plastic tank through the front of the washer. You need to slightly lift the knot and pull it towards you.

Let us disassemble the tank!

What to do next? The cross is located inside, so the container will have to be halved. If the washing machine is equipped with a collapsible tank, then it is enough to remove all the screws around the perimeter of the tank and gain access to the drum. First, you need to remove the pulley from the tank. To do this, unscrew the screw holding the “drum wheel.” Next, remove all the screws around the perimeter of the plastic container, remove the latches and halve the container. This way you can get to the drum.

Some machines are equipped with non-separable tanks. In this case, you will have to see the container with a grinder exactly along the weld seam. Subsequently, the structure is assembled, and the halves of the tank are fastened together with moisture-resistant sealant and self-tapping screws.

Once you have access to the drum, inspect the cross. After doing this work, you will find that the part does not require replacement at all. Then the reason for the “whims” of the washing machine will be broken bearings - check them too. If the crosspiece bursts, you will have to replace it. Buy a new part that is the same as the one you are removing. It is important to select components for a specific model of washing machine.

Replacing a broken part

The crosspiece is fixed to the drum with three bolts. After using the washing machine for a long time, the screws may “stick” and unscrewing them will be very problematic. WD-40 aerosol lubricant will help deal with “stuck” screws. Treat the desired area with the product and let the composition act for 20-30 minutes. The scale and plaque will liquefy, so you can safely remove the screws.

To dismantle the crosspiece, arm yourself with a small hammer and a slotted screwdriver. Gently tap the part, prying it up. This will cause the element to fly out of the grooves.

Install a new crosspiece, then assemble the tank, return it to its place, and connect all the previously removed wires, pipes, sensors, and elements. Fix the control panel, and secure the front, back and top walls of the case. Run a test washing mode and observe how the “home assistant” behaves after the repair.