How to check shock absorbers on a washing machine

It is easy to notice that your automatic washing machine has problems with its shock absorbers. When operating at high speeds, the washing machine will rattle, shake and “run” around the room. Therefore, if after each wash you find your “home assistant” at some distance from the place where it is installed, it is better not to delay with diagnostics.

If you do not check the shock absorbers on the washing machine in time and do not change them, this will lead to more serious problems. For example, due to constant shaking, the tank of the machine may crack. We will tell you how to test the dampers.

How to tell if a shock absorber is broken?

You shouldn't immediately run to the store for new shock absorbers. First, you need to check the functionality of the old parts. To inspect the dampers, you will have to partially disassemble the machine body, since they are installed below, under the washing machine tank. The algorithm of actions will differ depending on the model of the washing machine.

On many models of washing machines, for example, Bosch, it is enough to remove the front wall of the case. On such machines, the shock absorbers are attached to the bottom of the machine with a bolt from below, and to the tank with a latch from above. To get the dampers, you will need to:

• De-energize the washing machine,
• close the shut-off valve,
• disconnect the machine from communications,
• unscrew the bolts holding the front panel of the case,
• remove the front wall so that it doesn’t get in the way,
• prepare a long drill of the required diameter (usually 13 mm),
• drill out the bolt that secures the shock absorber from below,
• deal with the latch that holds the stand to the tank.

After this, you can take the shock absorber out of the housing. On other automatic machines, for example, LG, you don't need to disassemble the washing machine at all. You can get access to the dampers on them through the bottom. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

• Turn off the power to the machine, disconnect it from the water supply and sewerage system,
• Cover the floor with a blanket,
• Place the washing machine on its left side (but not on the right side, otherwise you may flood the control board with water from the detergent drawer),
• Press the plastic clips on both ends of the shock absorber.

The type of shock absorber mount also depends on the brand and model. Thus, on Samsung, AEG and Miele washing machines, M8 and M10 bolts are used to secure the dampers. To unscrew them, you will need socket wrenches of the appropriate sizes. On LG and Whirlpool machines, the racks are held in place with plastic latches, which are easy to handle with your own hands, without special tools.

The dismantling of the shock absorbers must be done carefully so as not to damage the fasteners. Do not press hard on the latches or use "heavy" or sharp tools. It is necessary to monitor not only the fasteners, but also the safety of the tank, the wires and pipes located nearby, as well as the integrity of the racks themselves.

Each shock absorber should be checked for serviceability. This is done as follows:

• Press the rod,
• Try to pull the rod out of the rack,
• Estimate the resistance provided by the element.

When the rod "moves" freely inside the rack, it is time to change the shock absorbers. Such dampers are no longer able to fully dampen the vibrations of the machine. For individual parts, you also need to check whether there is grease in the piston. The absence of the substance will indicate wear of the element. Another unpleasant sign is rust on the body.

Is it possible to repair the shock absorber?

Having discovered that the shock absorbers are faulty, the question arises of what to do next. Buy new ones or try to repair the old struts? Dampers can be repaired if the following faults occur:

• The liner or sealing gasket is worn out,
• The shock absorber mounting bolts are worn out.

However, the part cannot be repaired in all cases. If it is a factory defect of the rack, or its mechanical damage, then the dampers will have to be replaced. Experts do not recommend using an automatic machine until the problems with the shock absorbers are eliminated.

So, having pulled the shock absorbers out of the housing, first of all check the stroke of the rod. If it is freely compressed and expanded, then replacement will be mandatory. Such a damper cannot be repaired.

The shock absorber, the rod of which moves with effort, is fully functional. The element needs to be checked further:

• Remove the damper insert,
• If the rod moves easily without the insert, replace the gasket.

It will be problematic to buy such a small part, it is much easier to make a new gasket with your own hands. Take a belt about 3 mm thick. Cut out a piece from it, the shape and size of which corresponds to the removed sealing rubber.

The homemade gasket is installed in the shock absorber. It must first be lubricated. Then the rod and insert can be put back in place.

If mechanical defects are visible on the shock absorber (caused by natural wear, manufacturing defects, etc.), then there is only one way out - buy and install new dampers. You should select components based on the markings on the old parts. Buying struts at random is unacceptable.

Therefore, when going to the store, take the dismantled shock absorbers with you. This will guarantee that you buy racks that are ideal for your washing machine. Installing the dampers is done similarly, in reverse order.