Bosch washing machine drum repair

If the drum in the washing machine begins to creak or clang loudly during operation, then most likely this is due to faulty bearings. However, there is no need to rush into buying new parts, because repairing the drum of a Bosch washing machine always begins with a disassembly that will show exactly what has gone wrong. If, after analysis, you find out that the problem is not in the destroyed crosspiece, but in the bearings, then it is quite possible to deal with this.

Freeing up space to remove the tank

There is nothing complicated in the process of replacing bearings, but the preparatory procedures are a whole story. This is due to the fact that you first need to remove from the body of the “home assistant” all the elements that could interfere with the removal of the tank-drum assembly, which takes a lot of time. Before disassembly, be sure to prepare a working screwdriver, as well as a Phillips and flat-head screwdriver - three tools that will be sufficient for dismantling. Follow our instructions carefully so that the entire procedure goes as expected.

• Disconnect your Bosch washing machine from all communications.
• Unscrew the 2 screws that secure the top panel of the CM from the back, and then remove the cover itself.
• Remove the powder receptacle from the equipment.
• Remove the control panel by first unscrewing the screws.
• Remove the decorative panel installed on the front of the case from below.
• Remove 3 more screws that are located directly behind the decorative panel.
• Unclench and remove the wire clamp holding the cuff, and insert the cuff itself into the drum.
• Remove the front wall, behind which you will find the UBL, which is not disconnected from the main part of the washing machine.
• Carefully remove the lock chip or simply remove the UBL without breaking the wires and contacts.
• Remove the filler pipe.
• Disconnect the wire that goes to the dispenser, and then remove the tray from the body.

It is advisable to take photographs of all the wiring that will be disconnected during the process of disassembling the equipment - this way you will have at your fingertips the correct example of connecting the wires, which will be useful during reassembly.

• Remove the top metal trim panel, which you gained access to after removing the machine control panel.
• Lower the counterweight slightly by loosening its mounting bolts.
• Remove the terminals from the thermistor and disconnect it.
• Disconnect the power and ground wires that are connected to the tube heater.
• Remove the heating element from the machine.
• Remove the clamps that secure the plastic cover of the SM tank, and for now move it to another room so that it does not interfere with the main work.

This completes the analysis of the washing machine. As you can see, dismantling is not that complicated and can be done with a minimal set of tools, so you can save money and not take the equipment to a service center. Then all you need to do is replace the damaged elements, which we will discuss in the next two paragraphs.

Removing the drum, worn bearings, seals

Now that nothing is stopping you from removing the tank-drum assembly, you can begin the main stage of the repair work. Proceed with caution and follow our instructions carefully.

• Remove the back panel of the Bosch washing machine, which is secured with five screws.
• Remove the drive belt.
• Unscrew the nut that holds the pulley.
• Carefully remove the drum and unscrew it.

Now it is very important to make sure that there is no damage to the drum cross. If there are no signs of wear on the shaft, then you can return to replacing the bearings. If the crosspiece is in poor condition, you will first have to buy a new one and install it, and then continue the repairs.

At this stage you should work very carefully so as not to damage anything. You need to knock the bearings out of the tank, which requires a special drift and an ordinary hammer. The instructions are as follows:

• remove the oil seal, that is, the rubber seal in the shape of a ring;
• Place one end of the drift in the center of the rear bearing and begin tapping the other end with a hammer

Always change the position of the punch so you don't hit the same spot over and over again.

• Once the first bearing is finished, proceed to the second element.

When everything is ready, you need to remove liquid, rust, plaque and any other contaminants from the seat, and you should also clean the drum shaft. All that remains is to replace the bearings.

Installation of bearings and seals

You should never buy parts from memory, because there is a risk of making a mistake with the choice. The easiest way is to remove the old bearings and use them as an example so that a specialist can select an identical product for you. You can also write down the exact name of the Bosch washing machine to search for components specifically for this model.

A bearing with a smaller diameter must be installed on the outside of the tank, which can be done through the previously removed rear wall of the machine. It is also worth hammering it in with a hammer and a drift, constantly alternating the place of blows.Place the drift on the outer race of the bearing and slowly drive the part into the seat in the tank.

Do not hit the inner race of the bearing under any circumstances, as this can accidentally damage it, which will force you to buy another one.

The second bearing should be installed in the same way, carefully driving it into the hole. When the main work is completed, reinstall the oil seal, pre-treated with lubricant, to extend its service life and improve performance. You can also treat the drum bushing with lubricant, which will improve its water resistance, ensure heat resistance of the connection and generally increase the service life of bearings with an oil seal.

At this point the repair is complete, all that remains is reassembly. Follow our instructions in reverse order, starting with installing the drum, pulley and drive belt, moving to the back wall of the washing machine and further internal components of the unit. Do not rush, check our recommendations if you are not sure about something, and then you will definitely be able to restore the functionality of your favorite “home assistant” on your own.

Reader comments

• Share your opinion - leave a comment