How to remove the transport bolts on an Indesit washing machine?

Choosing a washing machine is not an easy task, but it is equally important to properly transport the unit and install it after purchase. The last two tasks are not difficult to handle if you remember the shipping bolts. They must be used when delivering any washing machine, and the Indesit model is no exception. Before operation, it is necessary to remove the transport bolts on the Indesit washing machine, otherwise the warranty and integrity of the machine will end. Therefore, do not forget about the clamps and learn how to dismantle them correctly.

Purpose of fasteners

If for other household appliances a branded cardboard box and a foam frame are enough for safe transportation, then with washing machines everything is more complicated. Inside each washing machine there is a tank and a drum, which are literally suspended. They are held in place only by a pair of screws and special springs, which, thanks to shock absorption, do not restrict the movement of the motor shaft during operation of the machine. In simple words, it is the dampers that soften the speed picked up by the engine, suppressing vibration due to centrifugal force.

But the suspended drum creates certain difficulties when moving the machine over long distances. The fact is that without reliable fixation, the tank will “jump” during sudden movements, and shock absorbers will not save it from impacts and further mechanical damage. Shipping bolts securely fasten the internal moving elements, preventing them from coming into contact with other parts. Therefore, transportation becomes easy and safe for the unit.

Shipping bolts secure the tank during transport, protecting it from vibration, shock and damage.

The bolts used for Indesit transportation look standard. These are long screws consisting of three parts: a metal “spiral”, a rubber intermediate ring and a plastic insert-tip. The only difference is the size of the fasteners, which are made individually for each model.

Where can I find these screws?

It is not difficult to understand where the latches are located. As a rule, their location is predictable and depends on the type of machine purchased. So, there are two options:

• if the model is vertical loading, then the screws holding the tank are screwed from above or from behind;
• If the machine is a front type, then you need to look for bolts strictly on the rear panel.

All information about the number and location of transport bolts on the Indesit washing machine can be found in the factory instructions.

Most often, the bolts are located on the rear sides of the housing. But it’s better not to waste time examining the rear panel, but to look at the factory instructions and find out the exact location of the bolts. It also provides step-by-step instructions on how to remove fasteners, with useful explanations and recommendations. The number of clamps used varies - from 2 to 4 pieces. It all depends on the dimensions, capacity of the washing machine and the manufacturer’s policy.

Removing the screws: instructions

So, the car was delivered to the apartment. Of course, you want to connect the unit and start washing as soon as possible, but it’s better not to rush. First, let the washer “rest” at room temperature for several hours. Next, we remove the factory stickers and set up free access to communications, electricity, water supply and sewerage.We deal with transportation bolts only after all the manipulations described above.

The clamps are removed using a special key, which is usually included with any Indesit model. If it is not there, then we find a 12mm head or pliers. Next we proceed like this.

1. Loosen the screws by unscrewing them by 3.5-4 cm.
2. We push the bolt inside the housing until it rests on a hard surface (on average, a recess of 2-2.5 cm is enough).
3. Without touching the screws themselves, remove the rubber gaskets and the plastic tip.
4. We close the vacated holes with special plastic “plugs”, which are included with Indesit washing machines. The main thing is to press on the lids until you hear a characteristic click.

The machine is supplied with a special key for removing transport bolts and plastic plugs.

But do not rush to throw away the removed shipping fasteners. It is better to pack them and store them along with the instructions and other documentation. They will come in handy the next time you transport the car, if it is sold or moved. Do not forget that it is strongly not recommended to transport machine guns without bolts.

What if you run the machine with bolts?

It is prohibited to use the washing machine with the bolts not removed. The fact is that these fasteners fix the drum in a stationary state, which will inevitably lead to disastrous consequences when the engine is turned on. First, the shock absorbers will suffer, then the bearings will take the blow, and then the drum itself and the elements surrounding it will be damaged. The longer this “cycle” lasts, the less chance of “survival” the washer has.

Unfortunately, many people forget about the bolts and start washing with them. In this case, the machine begins to signal a problem as follows:

• during washing, rinsing, and especially during spinning, it begins to vibrate strongly;
• vibration turns into “jumping” around the room;
• The shaking is accompanied by noise and a strong roar.

Washing with the transport bolts not removed is not considered a warranty case!

If the machine, despite the fixed drum, was turned on, you should immediately, forcibly, end the cycle. Afterwards, be sure to call a specialist from the service center to your home and ask to evaluate the condition of the internal parts of the washing machine. The technician will give an expert opinion and, if necessary, carry out the required repairs.

Transporting the machine without special screws

It happens that the shipping bolts have not been preserved, and the machine needs to be transported. In this situation, you must try to secure the unit as much as possible in order to minimize the risks of internal damage. Following the following recommendations will help with this.

• The machine gun can only be transported horizontally and with the ditch down. The vertical position of the washer will cause the tank to loosen and the dampers to weaken, which will severely damage the structure. You can’t put the machine with the hatch up, as the remaining water can get into the electronic components of the system.
• Carefully cover the drum with clothing, foam rubber, paper or polystyrene foam.
• We drain all the water from the washing machine using the emergency drain.

Transporting a washing machine without screwing in special bolts is extremely risky, and it is better to entrust this task to service center professionals.

There is no point in purchasing “spare” fasteners, especially from third-party manufacturers. Fasteners are an individual thing, and their sizes vary even among models of the same brand.

Transport bolts are designed to protect the car from Russian roads with all its consequences. If you remove them on time and correctly, then no problems will arise, and the washer will serve you for many years.

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