If your Kenmore washing machine is making noise, you’ve come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we’ll be discussing the causes of this issue and showing you how to fix them…
Table of Contents
Kenmore Washing Machine Is Making Noise During Spin Cycle — Solution
If your Kenmore washing machine is making noise during spin cycles, here are the issues to look for…
1. Damaged Shock Absorbers (Front Loaders)
If your front loader washing machine is making noise during cycles, the most likely cause is a damaged shock absorber. Follow the steps below to replace this part…
Front Shock Absorbers
Take the following steps to replace the front shock absorber in your Kenmore washing machine…
Step 1. In order to prevent any chances of electrocution, ensure that your washing machine’s power cord is disconnected from the power supply before starting this repair.
Step 2. Move your washing machine forwards a bit to gain access to the back. With a Philips screwdriver, take out the bolts holding the top panel to the cabinet. Pull the panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the machine.
Step 3. Slide the soap tray out, then press the little locking tab inside to release it from the dispenser. Set the tray aside.
Step 4. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the two bolts next to the dispenser opening on the control panel.
Step 5. Take out the nuts at the back of the control panel. Pry the panel off the mounting bracket. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the control panel, then set the panel aside.
Step 6. Open your washing machine’s pump filter access panel. Pull the emergency drain tube out of the retainers.
Step 7. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the two screws holding the pump filter housing to the cabinet. Pull the housing out of place and set it aside.
Step 8. Open the door of your machine. Wedge a flat-blade screwdriver underneath the retaining wire around the door boot seal. Work the screwdriver around until the wire pops off (take care not to damage the door boot seal).
Step 9. Peel the door gasket off the front panel. Reach into the machine, then disconnect the door switch wire harness at the back of the front panel.
Step 10. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the single screw at the bottom of the front panel.
Step 11. Take out the six screws at the top of the front panel. Carefully lift the entire front panel off the cabinet, then set it aside.
Step 12. Place a 1/2 inch deep well socket on the pointed end of the shock absorber’s upper mounting pin. Pull the pin out through the other end using pliers. Repeat this process with the lower pin.
Step 13. Pull the shock absorber out of the tub and cabinet mounts, then discard it. Prepare the new shock absorber for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 14. Push the new shock absorber into the mount on the cabinet. Push the upper part of the shock into the mount at the bottom of the tub.
Step 15. Secure the new shock absorber by pushing the lower and upper mounting pins into place. Replace the second front shock absober by repeating this process.
Step 16. Lift the main front panel and remount it on the cabinet. Tighten the screws at the top of the panel using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 17. Open your washer’s door, then reconnect the wire harness to the door switch. Carefully fit the door boot seal around the front panel.
Step 18. Using your flat-blade screwdriver, refit the retaining band around the door boot seal.
Step 19. Use your Philips screwdriver to apply the single screw at the bottom of the font panel. Push the pump filter housing into place, then tighten the two screws.
Step 20. Close the pump filter access panel. Reconnect the wire harness to the terminal on the control panel.
Step 21. Snap the control panel onto the mounting bracket, then apply the bolts at the back with your Philips screwdriver.
Step 22. Tighten the two bolts next to the dispenser opening. Push the detergent tray back into the dispenser.
Step 23. Mount the top panel on the cabinet, then push it forwards. Secure the panel by applying the Philips screws.
Step 24. Reconnect your washing machine’s power cord to the outlet. To ensure that the issue has been fixed, try running a spin cycle.
Rear Shock Absorbers
Follow the steps below to replace the rear shock absorbers in your front loader Kenmore washing machine…
Step 1. In order to prevent any chances of electrocution, ensure that your washing machine’s power cord is disconnected from the outlet before starting this repair.
Step 2. Turn the washer’s water supply taps off in order to prevent leakage. Disconnect the COLD and HOT water supply hoses from the ports at the back of the machine.
Step 3. With someone assisting you, move your washing machine forwards a bit to gain access to the rear of the cabinet.
Step 4. Using a Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the rear panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 5. Push a 1/2 inch deep well socket onto the pointed end of one of the upper shock absorber mounting pin. Pull the pin out from the other end using pliers. Repeat this process with the lower pin.
Step 6. Pull the shock absorber out of the tub and cabinet mounts, then discard it. Prepare your new shock absorber for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 7. Push the new shock absorber into the mounts at the bottom of the tub, and on the cabinet. Push the upper and lower pins into place to secure the new shock absorber.
Step 8. If needed, replace the second rear shock absorber by repeating the steps above. Remount the rear panel on the cabinet, then apply the screws using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 9. Reconnect the HOT and COLD water supply hoses to the ports at the back of the machine (in order to prevent any chances of leakage, ensure that the hoses are properly attached).
Step 10. Carefully move your washing machine back into place. Reconnect the power cord to the outlet, then turn the water supply taps on. To ensure that the issue has been fixed, try running a spin cycle.
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2. Damaged Suspension Rods (Top Loaders)
If your top loader Kenmore washing machine is making noise, it is most likely the result of a damaged suspension rod. Follow the steps below to learn how to replace this part…
Step 1. Disconnect your washing machine’s power cord from the outlet before starting this repair in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. Insert a putty knife underneath the top panel (this will release the locking clips). Lift the top panel assembly, then support it using a lanyard.
Step 3. Lift the tub assembly, then detach the suspension rod you want to replace from the tub mount. Pull the rod out of the cabinet, then discard it.
Step 4. Prepare your new washing machine suspension rod for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 5. Hook the top part of the new rod in the support bracket. Hook the bottom part of the rod in the tub mount.
Step 6. Lower the top panel and snap it into the cabinet. Reconnect your appliance to the outlet, then try running a spin cycle to ensure that the issue has been fixed.
3. Damaged Drive Pulley
If your Kenmore washing machine is making noise, it could be as a result of a damaged drive pulley. To replace this part in your washing machine, follow the steps below…
Front Loaders
Take the following steps to replace the drive pulley in your front loader Kenmore washing machine…
Step 1. Ensure that your washing machine’s power cord from the outlet before starting this repair in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. Using a Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the rear panel to the cabinet. Lift the panel off the machine, then set it aside.
Step 3. Take the drive belt off the drive pulley and motor pulley. Using a 24mm socket wrench, take out the bolt securing the old drive pulley to the tub shaft.
Step 4. Take the pulley wheel off the shaft, then discard it. Prepare the new drive pulley for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 5. Mount the new pulley wheel on the tub shaft, then tighten the bolt with your 24mm socket wrench.
Step 6. Loop the drive belt around the new drive pulley and the motor pulley (ensure that the grooved side of the belt is turned inwards)
Step 7. Snap the rear panel back on the cabinet, then apply the bolts with your Philips screwdriver.
Step 8. Plug your washing machines’ power cord back into the outlet, then try running a spin cycle to ensure that the issue has been fixed.
Top Loaders
To replace the pulley wheel in your top loader Kenmore washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Turn your washer’s water supply taps off and disconnect the power cord from the outlet before starting this repair in order to prevent any chances of electrocution and leakage.
Step 2. Detach thee water supply hoses from the ports at the back of the machine (if needed, use a pair of pliers). Pull the drain hose out of the standpipe.
Step 3. Tip your washing machine forwards carefully, then set it on the floor. Loosen the bolts holding the belt guard to the bottom of the tub. Take the guard off the tub, then set it aside.
Step 4. Take the drive belt off the drive pulley and motor pulley. Set the belt aside. Using a 10mm socket wrench, take out the bolt holding the pulley wheel to the shaft.
Step 5. Take the pulley off the shaft, then discard it. Prepare the new pulley wheel for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 6. Place the new pulley wheel on the shaft, then apply the bolt to secure. Loop the drive belt around the two pulleys with the grooved side facing inwards.
Step 7. Put the belt guard back on the machine, then apply the bolts. Carefully lift your washing machine back onto its feet, then insert the drain hose into the standpipe.
Step 8. Reconnect the HOT and COLD water supply hoses to the corresponding ports at the back of the machine.
Step 9. Turn your machine’s water supply taps on, then reconnect the power cord to the outlet. Try running a spin cycle to ensure that the issue has been fixed.
4. Damaged Drum Rollers (Dryers)
If your Kenmore dryer is making noise when spinning, it indicates that the drum rollers have gone bad. Follow the steps below to replace this part…
Step 1. In order to prevent any chances of electrocution, ensure that your machine is disconnected from the outlet before starting this procedure.
Step 2. With a Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts at the back of the machine securing the top panel. Pull the panel backwards about an inch or so, then lift it off the machine.
Step 3. Using your screwdriver, take out the nuts at the back of the control panel. Pry the panel off the cabinet. Disconnect the wire harness from the control panel, then set the panel aside.
Step 4. Disconnect the door lock and drum light wire harnesses at the top of the front panel.
Step 5. Open the door of the machine, then loosen the nuts at the bottom of the door opening. Take out the screws at the top of the front panel. Carefully lift the front panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 6. Disconnect the moisture sensor wire harness at the bottom of the front bulkhead. With your screwdriver, take out the bolts holding the control panel’s mounting bracket to the front of the cabinet. Take the bracket off and set it aside.
Step 7. Loosen the screws securing the front bulkhead to the cabinet. Carefully lift the bulkhead off the machine and set it aside.
Step 8. Reach underneath the drum carefully, then push the idler pulley inwards to release the tension on the drive belt. Unhook the drive belt from the motor pulley and idler pulley.
Step 9. Lift the belt and drum out of the cabinet carefully, then set them aside. Note the positioning of the wires attached to the heater assembly, then disconnect each one.
Step 10. Detach the wires attached to the rear high-limit thermostat on the heating element.
Step 11. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the heating element to the cabinet. Pull the element out of place the set it aside.
Step 12. Pry the heat shield off the back of the cabinet. Using your screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the steam generator guard to the rear bulkhead. Pry the guard off and set it aside.
Step 13. Loosen the nuts holding the steam generator to the bulkhead. Move the generator out of place, then secure it to the rear panel using a zip-tie.
Step 14. Release the three wire retaining clips on the rear bulkhead using needle-nosed pliers.
Step 15. With your screwdriver, take out the seven bolts at the back of the machine holding the rear bulkhead. Lift the bulkhead off the cabinet, then set it facing downwards on a flat surface.
Step 16. Secure the shaft of the drum roller you want to replace using a 6mm socket. Loosen the roller mounting bolt at the other side of the panel using a 3/8 inch socket wrench.
Step 17. Take the roller off the rear bulkhead, then discard it. Prepare the new washing machine drum roller for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 18. Place the roller on the bulkhead, then tighten the bolt at the back using your socket wrench.
Step 19. Lift the front bulkhead, then snap the wire harness retainers into the slots. Mount the bulkhead on the cabinet, then tighten the screws at the back of the machine using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 20. Cut the zip-tie holding the steam generator. Push the generator back into place, then apply the bolts using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 21. Mount the steam generator cover on the rear bulkhead. Use your screwdriver to apply the bolts.
Step 22. Snap the heat shield back onto the steam generator. Reinstall the heating element in the cabinet, then tighten the bolts with your screwdriver.
Step 23. Plug each wire harness into its appropriate terminal on the heating element. Reconnect the wires to the rear high-limit thermostat.
Step 24. Lift the drum and belt, then carefully guide them into the cabinet. Reach underneath the drum, then loop the belt the idler pulley and motor pulley in a zig-zag formation.
Step 25. Slowly rotate the drum by hand to ensure that the drive belt is properly aligned. Lift the front bulkhead carefully, then mount it on the cabinet. Apply the screws to secure the bulkhead.
Step 26. Reconnect the moisture sensor wire harness at the bottom of the front bulkhead.
Step 27. Place the control panel’s mounting bracket on the cabinet, then tighten the screws using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 28. Lift the main front panel, then mount it on the cabinet. Using your screwdriver, apply the screws at the top of the front panel.
Step 29. Open the door of your machine, then tighten the screws at the bottom of the opening. Plug the drum light and door lock wire connectors back in.
Step 30. Reconnect the wire harness to the control panel. Snap the panel onto the front of the cabinet, then use your Philips screwdriver to apply the nuts at the back.
Step 31. Mount the top panel on the cabinet. Secure the panel by tightening the Philips screws. Reconnect your appliance to the outlet, then try running a cycle to see if the issue has been fixed.
5. Cracked Spider Arm (Front Loaders)
If the spider arm in your front loader washing machine cracks, the tub will produce a lot of noise when spinning. In order to prevent further damage, it is advised that you replace the spider as possible. Follow the steps below to do this…
Step 1. Ensure that you turn your washing machine’s water supply taps off and disconnect the power cord from the outlet before starting this repair in order to prevent leakage and electrocution.
Step 2. Go to the back of your washing machine. Using a Philips screwdriver, take out the bolts securing the top panel. Slide the top panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Slide the soap tray out of the housing. Press the little tab inside the tray to completely release it from the dispenser. Set the tray aside.
Step 4. Use your Philips screwdriver to loosen the two bolts next to the dispenser opening. Disconnect the control panel’s wire harnesses.
Step 5. Take out the bolts at the back of the control panel. Pry the panel off the front of the cabinet, then set it aside.
Step 6. Open your washing machine’s door, then wedge a flat-blade screwdriver underneath the retaining band on the seal. Work the screwdriver around until the wire pops off (take care not to damage the seal).
Step 7. Peel the door boot seal off the front panel. Reach into the cabinet behind the front panel, then disconnect the wire harness from the door lock.
Step 8. Pry the pump filter access panel open, the pull the emergency drain hose out of the retainers.
Step 9. Place a container underneath the hose. Pull the hose’s cap off, then let any water stuck in the machine drain out. Once all the water has drained out, put the hose’s cap back on.
Step 10. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the pump filter housing to the cabinet. Pull the housing out and set it aside.
Step 11. Loosen the single screw at the bottom of the front panel. Use your screwdriver to take out the bolts at the top of the front panel. Carefully lift the front panel off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 12. Detach the little tube from the port at the top of the door boot seal. Pry the inner retaining band off the door boot seal using a flat-blade screwdriver. Detach the door seal from the drum, then set it aside.
Step 13. Loosen the bolts holding the lower and upper weights to the front of the tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Carefully lift each weight off the tub and set aside.
Step 14. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts on the screw-clamps securing the hoses to the top of the drum. Pull each hose off the ports at the top of the drum.
Step 15. Disconnect the thermistor wire connector at the lower front section of the tub. Disconnect the wire harnesses attached to the heating element at the bottom of the tub.
Step 16. Take out the bolt holding the grounding wire to the heating element using a 10mm socket wrench.
Step 17. Go to the back of the machine, then use your Philips screwdriver to loosen the bolts holding the rear panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 18. Place some rags on the floor of the cabinet underneath the tub. With your screwdriver, loosen the screw-clamp holding the sump hose to the bottom of the tub. Detach the hose from the tub.
Step 19. Use your screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the pressure chamber to the back of the tub. Loosen the bolts holding the stator wire harness retainers to the tub.
Step 20. Take out the nut holding the stator grounding wire to the tub. Using a 17mm socket wrench, take out the bolt holding the rotor assembly to the tub. Carefully pry the rotor off the tub and set it aside.
Step 21. With your 10mm socket wrench, take out the bolts securing the stator to the tub. Detach the wire harnesses attached to the stator (ensure that you note where each connector goes).
Step 22. Place a 13mm socket on the pointed end of the upper rear shock absorber mounting pin. Pull the pin out of the shock absorber using pliers. Take out the mounting pins of the front shock absorbers in the same way.
Step 23. Pull each shock absorber out of the mount at the bottom of the tub. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry off the suspension spring covers at the top of the cabinet.
Step 24. Carefully unhook the two springs from the cabinet. Lower the tub assembly, then guide it out of the cabinet.
Step 25. Turn the tub to face upwards, then set it on two supports. Using a 10mm socket wrench, loosen all the bolts holding the two halves of the tub together. Lift the front half of the tub off the assembly, then set it aside.
Step 26. Turn the tub assembly over, then use a mallet to carefully knock the inner tub out.
Step 27. Use a 10mm socket to take out the six bolts holding the spider arm to the back of the inner tub. Take the spider off and discard it.
Step 28. Prepare your new washing machine spider support arm for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 29. Place the new spider arm on the inner tub, then apply the bolts using your socket wrench.
Step 30. Set the rear half of the outer tub on the supports. Lower the inner tub into the rear half of the outer tub. Carefully lower the front half of the outer tub onto the assembly (mind the heating element).
Step 31. Secure the two halves of the tub by applying the 10mm bolts. Lift the tub assembly, then reattach the two suspension springs. Carefully guide the tub into the cabinet.
Step 32. Lift each suspension spring, then hook it onto the cabinet. Snap the suspension spring retainers back on.
Step 33. Push each of the shock absorbers into the mounts at the bottom of the tub. Secure the shock absorbers by pushing the pins into the mounts.
Step 34. Reconnect each of the hoses to the ports at the top of the drum. Secure the hoses by tightening the screw-clamps.
Step 35. Reattach the sump hose to the port at the bottom of the tub. Using your Philips screwdriver, tighten the screw-clamp.
Step 36. Reconnect the wire harness to the thermostor at the lower portion of the tub. Plug each connector into its appropriate terminal on the heating element.
Step 37. Place the grounding wire on the heating element, then apply the 10mm bolt to secure it.
Step 38. Go to the back of the tub, then reattach the pressure chamber. Tighten the screws using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 39. Plug each wire connector into its appropriate terminal on the stator. Mount the stator at the back of the tub, then tighten the bolts with your 10mm socket wrench.
Step 40. Put the wire harness retaining brackets in place, then tighten the screws. Use your Philips screwdriver to apply the bolt on the stator grounding wire.
Step 41. Place the rotor assembly on the stator. Apply the 17mm bolt to secure the rotor. Snap the rear panel onto the cabinet, then tighten the screws with your Philips screwdriver.
Step 42. Go to the front of the machine, then remount the two weights on the drum. Secure the weights by tightening the 10mm bolts.
Step 43. Carefully fit the door boot seal around the tub opening. Use your flat-blade screwdriver to fit the inner retaining wire around the door boot seal. Tug the seal to ensure it is firmly connected.
Step 44. Connect the little tube to the port at the top of the door boot seal. Lift the front panel, then mount it on the cabinet. Using your screwdriver, tighten the bolts at the top of the panel.
Step 45. Apply the single screw at the bottom of the panel. Push the pump filter housing into place, then tighten the bolts.
Step 46. Open the door of your machine. Reach into the cabinet and reconnect the wire harness to the door switch.
Step 47. Carefully fit the door boot seal around the front panel. Using your flat-blade screwdriver, fit the outer retaining band around the seal.
Step 48. Snap the control panel onto the front of the cabinet. Plug the control panel wire connectors back in.
Step 49. Apply the bolts at the back of the control panel using a Philips screwdriver. Tighten the two bolts next to the dispenser opening.
Step 50. Push the detergent tray into the dispenser. Mount the top panel on the cabinet. Apply the bolts at the back of the panel using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 51. Reconnect your washer’s power cord to the outlet, then turn the water taps on. To ensure that the issue has been fixed, try running a spin cycle.
6. Damaged Clutch (Top Loaders)
To replace a damaged clutch in your top loader Kenmore washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Ensure that your washing machine’s power cord is disconnected from the outlet, and the water taps are turned off in order to prevent leakage and electrocution.
Step 2. Disconnect the COLD and HOT water supply hoses from the ports at the back of the machine (it is advised that you keep a rag nearby in case water spills).
Step 3. Insert a putty knife underneath the top panel (this will release the locking clips). Lift the top panel, then support it.
Step 4. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the tub ring to the assembly. Pry the ring off the machine and set it aside.
Step 5. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry the wash-plate cap off. Loosen the bolt holding the wash-plate to the inner tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Lift the plate out of the tub and set it aside.
Step 6. Slide the washer nut off the wash-plate shaft. Loosen the tub nut using a 38mm socket wrench. Carefully lift the inner tub out of the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 7. Lower the top panel and snap it into the cabinet. Pull your washing machine’s drain hose out of the standpipe.
Step 8. Carefully tip your washing machine forwards and set it on the floor (get someone to help you if needed).
Step 9. Using a hammer and an adjustable wrench, loosen the bolt holding the rotor to the bottom of the tub. Carefully pry the rotor off the tub and set it aside.
Step 10. Loosen the nuts holding the stator to the bottom of the tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Lift the stator off the tub.
Step 11. Detach the wire harnesses attached to the stator (ensure that you note where each connector goes). Disconnect the diverter motor wire harness at the bottom of the tub.
Step 12. Using a 10mm socket wrench, loosen the bolts holding the diverter motor to the tub. Take the motor off the machine, then unhook it from the actuator arm.
Step 13. Use a 10mm socket to take out the bolts securing the rotor shield. With your Philips screwdriver, take out the bolt holding the grounding wire to the clutch plate. Move the shield and wires aside.
Step 14. Use your socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the support bracket to the clutch assembly. Take the bracket off the tub and set it aside.
Step 15. Take out the bolts holding the clutch assembly to the tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Pull the assembly off the tub and set it aside.
Step 16. Prepare the new clutch assembly by taking it out of its packaging. Apply some liquid dish soap to the seal on the new clutch.
Step 17. Mount the new clutch assembly on the outer tub, then apply the 10mm bolts. Place the support bracket against the new clutch assembly, then tighten the bolts.
Step 18. Use your Philips screwdriver to tighten the bolt to secure the grounding wire on the new clutch assembly.
Step 19. Move the rotor shield and wires back into place, then apply the screws to secure them to the clutch.
Step 20. Hook the diverter motor onto the actuator arm. Mount the motor on the tub, then tighten the bolts with your 10mm socket wrench. Plug the wire harness into the motor.
Step 21. Plug each wire harness into the appropriate terminal on the stator. Mount the stator at the bottom of the tub, then secure it by tightening the 10mm bolts.
Step 22. Place the rotor on the stator. Secure the rotor by applying the bolt with your adjustable wrench.
Step 23. Get someone to help you lift your washing machine onto its feet. Insert a putty knife underneath the top panel to release the locking clips. Lift the top panel and support it.
Step 24. Lower the inner tub into the cabinet. Put the tub nut in place, then tighten it with the 38mm wrench.
Step 25. Place the wash-plate in the inner tub, then tighten the nut. Snap the cap onto the plate.
Step 26. Snap the tub cover onto the assembly, then apply the bolts to secure it. Lower the top panel and snap it onto the cabinet.
Step 27. Reinsert the drain hose into the standpipe. Reconnect the HOT and COLD water supply hoses to the ports at the back of the machine.
Step 28. Turn your washer’s water supply taps back on, then reconnect the power cord to the outlet. Ensure that the issue has been fixed by running a spin cycle.
7. Worn Bearings
If your Kenmore washing machine is making noise, another possible cause is damaged bearings. If you notice a lot of noise when rotating the drum by hand, you’ll need to replace the bearings. Follow the steps below to do this…
Tools Needed:
- Philips screwdriver
- 12mm, 13mm, 17mm socket wrenches
- Hammer
- Liquid soap
- Pliers
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- 10mm socket with extension
- New bearing kit
Step 1. Ensure that you disconnect your machine from the power outlet and turn the water taps off before starting this repair in order to prevent leakage and electrocution.
Step 2. Go to the back of the machine, then use a Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the top panel. Pull the panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the machine.
Step 3. Pull the soap tray out of the dispenser. Press the little tab in the drawer to release it from the housing. Set the tray aside.
Step 4. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts next to the dispenser opening on the control panel.
Step 5. Disconnect the wire harnesses at the back of the control panel. Using your screwdriver, loosen the bolts at the back of the panel. Pry the control panel off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 6. Open the door of your washing machine. Wedge a flat-blade screwdriver underneath the metal wire around the door boot seal. Carefully work the screwdriver around until the wire pops off (take care not to damage the seal).
Step 7. Peel the door gasket off the front panel. Reach into the cabinet behind the front panel, then disconnect the wire harness from the door lock assembly.
Step 8. Pry your washing machine’s pump filter access panel open. Pull the emergency drain tube out of the retainers.
Step 9. Place a container underneath the emergency drain tub. Pull the cap off the tub, then let any water stuck in the drum drain out.
Step 10. Once all the water has drained out, push the cap onto the tub. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the two nuts holding the pump filter housing to the cabinet. Pull the housing out and set it aside.
Step 11. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the single bolt at the bottom of the front panel. Loosen the screws at the top of the panel using a Philips screwdriver. Carefully lift the panel off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 12. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry the tube off the port at the top of the door boot seal.
Step 13. With your flat-blade screwdriver, pry the inner retaining band off the door boot seal. Pry the door seal off the drum opening.
Step 14. Take out the bolts holding the upper and lower weights to the front of the drum using a 10mm socket wrench. Carefully lift each weight off the drum and set it aside.
Step 15. Using your Philips screwdriver, release the screw-clamps holding the hoses to the ports at the top of the drum. Detach each hose from the tub.
Step 16. Disconnect the wire harness from the thermistor at the lower front section of the tub. Note the positioning of the wires attached to the heating element, then disconnect them.
Step 17. Use a 10mm socket wrench to loosen the bolt on the heating element securing the grounding wire.
Step 18. Go to the back of your washing machine. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the nuts holding the rear panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 19. Use your screwdriver to loosen the bolts holding the pressure chamber to the back of the tub. Detach the chamber.
Step 20. With your Philips screwdriver, loosen the screw-clamp holding the sump hose to the port a the bottom of the tub (ensure that you keep a rag nearby in case water spills).
Step 21. Take out the screw holding the stator grounding wire to the back of the tub. Loosen the bolts holding the wire harness retaining brackets to the back of the machine.
Step 22. Loosen the bolt holding the rotor to the back of the tub using a 17mm socket wrench. Carefully pry the rotor off the stator and set it aside.
Step 23. Take out the six bolts holding the stator to the back of the outer tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Lift the stator off the tub.
Step 24. Detach the wire connectors attached to the stator (ensure that you note where each plug goes). Set the stator aside.
Step 25. Push a 12mm wrench onto the pointed end of the rear shock absorber’s upper mounting pin (this will release the locking tabs).
Step 26. Pull the pin out of the mount using pliers. Repeat this process with the front shock absorbers. Pull each shock absorber out of the tub.
Step 27. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry off the two suspension spring covers on the cabinet. Carefully lift each of the two springs, then unhook them from the cabinet.
Step 28. Carefully lower the tub, then guide it out of the cabinet. Take the springs off the tub mounts.
Step 29. Set the tub assembly on two supports facing upwards. Using a 10mm socket with an extension, take out the bolts holding the two halves of the tub together.
Step 30. Lift the front half of the tub off the assembly and set it aside. Lift the inner tub out of the rear half of the outer tub.
Step 31. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, pry the seal out of the bearings in the tub. Clean out any rust on the bearings, then apply some penetrating oil to make it easier to remove.
Step 32. Turn the tub assembly over, then set it on the supports. Apply the penetrating oil to the outer bearing.
Step 33. Turn the rear half of the outer tub so it faces upwards. Using a hammer and a punch, knock the outer bearing out of the tub. Turn the tub over, then knock the inner bearing out in the same way.
Step 34. Clean the bearing housing using a brush. Discard the old bearing pieces, then prepare the new ones for installation by unpacking them.
Step 35. Apply a thin coat of liquid soap to the outer rim of the two new bearings. Place the new outer bearing in its seat.
Step 36. Place a flat board on the new bearing, then use your hammer to knock the bearing into the tub (the board will help ensure that the bearing sits evenly).
Step 37. Turn the tub assembly over, then push the inner bearing into the seat using your hammer and punch (ensure that you only tap the outer edges of the bearing.
Step 38. Firmly push the new seal into the space above the inner bearing. Lower the inner tub into the rear half of the outer tub.
Step 39. There is a rubber seal in the groove of the rear half of the outer tub. It is advised that you replace this seal whenever you split the tub, in order to prevent leaks.
Step 40. Lower the front half of the tub onto the assembly (mind the heating element. Secure the two halves of the tub by applying the 10mm bolts.
Step 41. Attach the two suspension springs to the tub. Carefully guide the tub assembly into the cabinet.
Step 42. Lift the suspension springs and hook them onto the cabinet. Snap the spring retainers back on.
Step 43. Lift each of the shock absorbers and push them into the mounts at the bottom of the tub. Secure the shock absorbers by pushing the mounting pins into place.
Step 44. Reconnect each of the hoses to the ports at the top of the tub assembly. Secure the hoses by tightening the screw clamps with your Philips screwdriver.
Step 45. Plug each wire connector into its appropriate terminal on the heating element. Place the grounding wire on the heater, then apply the 10mm bolt to secure it.
Step 46. Plug the wire harness into the thermistor. Reattach the air pressure chamber to the back of the tub, then apply the two screws with your screwdriver.
Step 47. Connect the sump hose to the port at the bottom of the tub. Tighten the screw-clamp to secure the hose.
Step 48. Plug each wire harness into the appropriate terminal on the stator. Mount the stator at the back of the tub, then apply the bolts with your socket wrench.
Step 49. Mount the rotor on the stator, then tighten the nut with your 17mm socket wrench. Secure the stator grounding wire to the back of the tub by applying the Philips screw.
Step 50. Secure the wire harness retaining brackets to the back of the machine by applying the bolts.
Step 51. Snap the rear access panel back onto the machine. Secure the panel by tightening the Philips screws.
Step 52. Go to the front of the machine, then mount the lower and upper weights on the drum. Secure the weights to the drum by applying the bolts with your 10mm socket wrench.
Step 53. Carefully fit the door boot seal around the drum opening. Secure the seal by fitting the retaining band around it (use a flat-blade screwdriver or a pair of needle-nosed pliers).
Step 54. Connect the little tube to the port at the top of the door boot seal. Lift the main front panel and mount it on the cabinet.
Step 55. Secure the front panel by tightening the screws at the top with your Philips screwdriver. Apply the single bolt at the bottom of the front panel.
Step 56. Push the pump filter housing into the front panel, then it by applying the screws.
Step 57. Open your washing machine’s door. Reach in behind the front panel and connect the wire harness to the door switch.
Step 58. Refit the door boot seal around the front panel. Use needle-nosed pliers or a flat-blade screwdriver to fit the retaining band around the gasket.
Step 59. Snap the control panel onto the front of the cabinet, then reconnect each wire harness. Secure the panel by applying the two screws at the back.
Step 60. Tighten the nuts next to the dispenser opening using your Philips screwdriver. Slide the soap tray into the housing.
Step 61. Mount the top panel on the cabinet. Secure the top panel by tightening the Philips screws at the back.
Step 62. Plug the power cord back into the outlet, then turn the water supply faucets on. Ensure that everything works properly by running a wash cycle.
8. Damaged Suspension Springs (Front Loaders)
To replace the suspension springs in your front loader Kenmore washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Disconnect your washing machine’s power cord from the outlet in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. Move your washing machine forwards a bit to get access to the rear. With your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the top panel. Slide the panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the screw-clamp holding the outlet hose to the dispenser. Detach the hose from the dispenser.
Step 4. Pry the cap off the suspension spring using a flat-blade screwdriver. Carefully lift the spring and unhook it from the cabinet.
Step 5. Lower the spring and tub to the floor of the cabinet. Unhook the spring from the tub. Discard the old spring, then prepare the new one for installation by taking it out of its packaging.
Step 6. Attach the new suspension spring to the tub. Lift the spring, then attach it to the cabinet. Snap the cover on to help secure the spring.
Step 7. Reconnect the outlet hose to the dispenser assembly, then tighten the screw-clamp. Replace the second suspension spring by repeating these steps.
Step 8. Place the top panel on the cabinet, then push it forwards. Tighten the bolts a the back of the machine using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 9. Move the machine back into place. Plug the power cord into the outlet. To ensure that the noise has stopped, try running a wash cycle.
9. Faulty Motor Bearing (Drive Motor Machines Only)
If your Kenmore washing machine is making noise, it could be as a result of a worn or damaged motor bearing. Follow the steps below to test this…
Front Loaders
To test the motor bearing in your front loader Kenmore washing machine, take the following steps…
Step 1. Ensure that your washing machine’s power cord is disconnected from the outlet in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. Using your Philips screwdriver, take out the nuts holding the rear panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 3. Carefully unhook the drive belt from the motor pulley and idler pulley. Set the belt aside.
Step 4. Try turning the motor pulley by hand; if you notice a grinding or squealing sound from the pulley, it indicates that the motor is damaged will need to be replaced.
Step 5. Once you are sure that the motor is in good condition, loop the drive belt around the two pulleys (ensure that the grooved side is turned inwards).
Step 6. Snap the rear panel onto the machine, then apply the Philips screws. Plug your machine’s power cord back into the outlet.
Top Loaders
To inspect the motor bearing in your top loader Kenmore washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Disconnect your appliance from the outlet and turn the water taps off in order to prevent any chances of leakage or electrocution.
Step 2. Disconnect the water inlet hoses from the ports at the back of the machine (some water may spill out, so ensure that you keep a rag nearby).
Step 3. Pull your washer’s drain hose out of the standpipe. Tip your washing machine forwards carefully and set it on the floor (get someone to help you if needed).
Step 4. Loosen the bolts holding the belt guard to the tub. Take the guard off and set it aside. Unhook the drive belt from the motor pulley and transmission pulley.
Step 5. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the drive motor. Use a 13mm socket wrench to loosen the bolts holding the drive motor to the mounting plate. Lift the motor off the plate.
Step 6. Try turning the motor pulley by hand. If you hear a grinding or squealing noise when turning the pulley, you’ll need to replace the motor.
Step 7. Once you are sure that the motor is in good condition, remount it on the transmission plate, then apply the bolts with your socket wrench.
Step 8. Plug the wire harness back into the drive motor. With the grooved side turned inwards, loop the drive belt around the motor pulley and transmission pulley.
Step 9. Put the belt guard back on the machine, then tighten the nuts to secure it. Carefully lift your washing machine onto its feet, then reinsert the drain hose into the standpipe.
Step 10. Connect the HOT and COLD water supply hoses to the corresponding ports at the back of the machine (in order to prevent any chances of leakage, ensure that the hoses are properly attached).
Step 11. turn the water supply taps back on, then reconnect the power cord to the outlet.
Dryers
To inspect the motor bearing in your Kenmore dryer, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Ensure that the appliance is disconnected from the outlet before starting this procedure in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. From the back of the machine, use your Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the top panel. Pull the panel backwards about an inch or so, then lift it off the machine.
Step 3. Using your screwdriver, loosen the nuts at the back of the control panel. Pry the panel off the mounting bracket. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the control panel, then set the panel aside
Step 4. Disconnect the drum light and door lock wire connectors at the top of the front panel.
Step 5. Open the door of the machine, then take out the two screws at the lower section of the front panel using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 6. Take out the bolts at the top of the front panel. Carefully lift the entire front panel off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 7. Detach the moisture sensor wire harness at the bottom of the front bulkhead. With your screwdriver, loosen the bolts holding the bulkhead to the cabinet. Lift the bulkhead off the machine and set it aside.
Step 8. Loosen the screws holding the control panel mounting bracket to the front of the machine. Lift it off the cabinet and set aside.
Step 9. Carefully reach underneath the tub and push the idler pulley inwards (this will release the tension on the drive belt). Unhook the belt from the motor pulley and idler pulley.
Step 10. Lift the drum and belt out of the cabinet carefully, then set them aside. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts holding the blower assembly cover.
Step 11. Loosen the bolt holding the blower wheel to the shaft using a 3/8 inch wrench. Take the wheel out of the housing and set it aside.
Step 12. Detach the wire harness from the motor assembly. With your flat-blade screwdriver, pry the front and rear mounting clips off the motor assembly.
Step 13. Lift the motor out of the cabinet. Try turning the motor pulley by hand to ensure that it spins freely.
Step 14. If you notices a grinding or scraping sound when turning the pulley, it indicates that the motor is defective and needs to be replaced.
Step 15. If your dryer’s motor is in good condition, reinstall it in the cabinet, then snap the front and rear retaining clips on.
Step 16. Plug the wire harness back into the motor. Put the blower wheel in place, then tighten the nut with your 3/8 inch socket wrench.
Step 17. Put the blower cover back on, then tighten the nuts. Lift the drum and belt, then carefully guide them into the cabinet.
Step 18. Reach underneath the drum, then loop the belt around the idler and motor pulley in a zig-zag formation. Rotate the drum by hand slowly to ensure that the belt is properly aligned.
Step 19. Lift the front bulkhead and mount it on the cabinet. Secure the bulkhead by tightening the screws.
Step 20. Plug the moisture sensor wire harness back in. Lift the main front panel and mount it on the cabinet. Secure the panel by applying the bolts at the top.
Step 21. Tighten the two screws at the bottom of the panel. Plug the drum light and drum switch wire harnesses back in.
Step 22. Reconnect the wire harness to the control panel. Snap the panel onto the cabinet, then apply the bolts at the back.
Step 23. Place the top panel on the machine. Secure the top panel by applying the Philips screws. Reconnect the appliance to the outlet.
