The belt is an important part of the washing machine, thanks to which the drum rotates. With the help of a belt, the drum pulley is connected to the engine. This design is used in all washing machines, and in case the belt stretches, flies or breaks, your machine will need immediate repair.
Problem Diagnosis
How to understand that the problem is in the belt? If the drum of the washing machine does not spin, but at the same time it rotates too easily by hand, or if it spins weakly, making a scraping sound at the same time, there is most likely something wrong with the belt. The reason may be different, but checking the belt is the simplest procedure that you can perform on your own without contacting the masters. When the belt fell off the first time, you can try to put it back on. Depending on the reason why this happened, the machine may or may not continue to operate normally. But if the belt flies again or even breaks, a replacement is definitely needed.
Possible causes of malfunction
- Belt wear. The most common reason why he can fly. If the belt is stretched, then during operation it flies off the drum or simply slips, making whistling sounds. Sometimes the belt breaks at the point of wear.
- Violation in the fastening of the pulley. The pulley can spin, and because of this, the belt flies. Check the strength of the fastening and tighten if necessary.
- Loose motor mount. The engine can become loose over time, because of this, the belt tension decreases. Check how well the engine is fixed.
- Deformation of a pulley or shaft. When the belt flies off, it can damage the pulley or the shaft itself. In this case, replacing the belt will not do, you will have to change all damaged parts. It happens that the pulley or shaft is initially irregular in shape due to factory defects. If such a malfunction is detected during the first operation, it is better to immediately return the machine under warranty and demand a replacement.
- Cross damage. The spider that connects the shaft to the tank can loosen or break completely, creating an imbalance and causing the belt to break. Tighten the bolts or completely replace the cross.
- Incorrect belt or pulley installation. If you have already tried to repair these parts, you may have made a mistake during assembly. Seek help from the master.
- The pulley or belt does not fit your machine. If you repaired it yourself, you might have bought the wrong part.
- Bearings worn out. Because of this, the rotation of the drum becomes uneven, which can cause the belt to fly off. This malfunction may be indicated by the knocking of the machine in the spin mode.
How to change the belt on a washing machine
To change the belt of the washing machine yourself, you must perform the following steps:
- Turn off the water and unplug the washing machine.
- Unscrew the fixing screws on the back of the machine and remove it.
- Remove the old belt: to do this, you need to pull it on yourself while rotating the pulley by hand.
- Put a new belt on the motor shaft.
- Gently pull the belt over the pulley, also rotating it by hand.
- Check that the belt is straight and correct if necessary.
- Replace back cover.
- Run a test wash to make sure the machine is working properly.
Pay attention to whether the belt has damaged the wires, sensors and other elements located nearby. It is desirable to diagnose and eliminate these malfunctions along with the replacement of the belt.
See also: