The belt is an important part of the washing machine, thanks to it the drum rotates. The drum pulley is connected to the engine using a belt. This design is used in all washing machines, and in case the belt stretches, falls off or breaks, your machine will need immediate repair.
Diagnosing the problem
How do you know if 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 rotates weakly, while making a scraping sound, then 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 yourself without contacting the masters. When the belt has fallen off for the first time, you can try putting 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 the 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 at the same time. Sometimes the belt breaks at the point of wear.
- Violation in the fastening of the pulley. The pulley may spin and cause the belt to fly off. Check the fastening for tightness and tighten if necessary.
- Loose engine mount. The engine can become loose over time, which reduces the belt tension. Check how well the engine is secured.
- Deformation of the pulley or shaft. When the belt falls off, it can damage the pulley or the shaft itself. In this case, replacing the belt will not be enough; you will have to change all damaged parts. It happens that a pulley or shaft is initially irregular in shape due to a factory defect. If such a malfunction is found during the first operation, it is better to immediately return the machine under warranty and demand replacement.
- Damage to the crosspiece. The crosspiece connects the shaft to the tank, it can weaken or completely burst, which will create an imbalance and lead to a breakdown of the belt. 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 in the assembly. Ask for help from the master.
- The pulley or belt does not fit your machine. If you repair yourself, you may have purchased the wrong part.
- Bearings worn out. As a result, drum rotation becomes uneven, which can cause the belt to fly off. This malfunction may be indicated by the knocking of the machine during the spin mode.
See also - When the washing machine is turned on, the machine knocks out
How to change a belt on a washing machine
To change the belt of the washing machine yourself, you must do the following:
- Turn off the water and unplug the washing machine.
- Unscrew the fixing screws on the rear wall of the machine and remove it.
- Remove the old belt: to do this, pull it over yourself, while rotating the pulley by hand.
- Slide a new belt onto the motor shaft.
- Gently pull the belt over the pulley, also rotating it by hand.
- Check if the belt is level and correct if necessary.
- Replace the 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 advisable to diagnose and eliminate these malfunctions together with replacing the belt.
See also:
