Replacing shock absorbers on an Ariston washing machine

Replacing shock absorbers on an Ariston washing machine Typically, dismantling and installing shock-absorbing springs on washing machines occurs quickly. The same cannot be said about Hotpoint Ariston models. Due to the design features of washing machines, replacing dampers takes a lot of time. You will have to partially disassemble the machine: remove the electric motor, remove the drive belt, one more nuance - the “tricky” clamps available on the racks. Let's figure out how to replace shock absorbers in an Ariston washing machine, and describe in detail the upcoming scope of work.

What's the best way to approach the elements?

The fact that the time has come to change the shock absorbers can be understood by the “behavior” of the machine. The washing machine will begin to hum strongly during operation, vibrate, and “jump” around the room. To confirm the “diagnosis”, you will have to partially disassemble the unit. Wear of dampers can lead to more serious problems, so repairs should not be delayed. The algorithm of actions will be as follows:

de-energize the Ariston SMA;
close the shut-off valve;
disconnect the drain “sleeve” and the inlet hose;
move the washing machine to a place where it is convenient to work with it;
drain the remaining water from the machine through the garbage filter;
pull out the powder receptacle;
remove the back panel of the machine (to do this, unscrew the bolts securing it);
remove the drive belt from the drum pulley and engine;
disconnect the wiring connected to the motor;

In order not to make mistakes during reassembly, it is better to photograph or sketch the arrangement of contacts and wires.

loosen the nuts securing the engine;
use a slotted screwdriver to pry up each fastener to loosen stuck joints;
pull the motor towards you and pull it out.

Now it's time to start dismantling the shock absorbers. You can only “climb” to the dampers from the bottom of the machine. Therefore, it is necessary to cover the floor with a rag and lay the machine on its right side.

Removing the Broken Part

Removing the shock-absorbing elements from the Ariston washing machine is prevented by special clamps made in the form of bursting plugs. Masters call them “nails” among themselves. Each of them goes through the damper and plates that hold the rack at the top and bottom. The plug looks absolutely smooth, which makes it difficult to remove from the body.

Repairers do not advise trying to get to the fastener from the other side with a screwdriver. This increases the risk of damaging the fragile plastic coating. You'll have to upgrade the tricky damper clamps. You can do it like this: how is it extracted

take a drill 2-2.5 mm in diameter, 20 cm long;
using a drill, drill a shallow hole (about three centimeters) in the middle of the plug;
screw the self-tapping screw into the hole so that it “sticks out” by about 4 cm;
Use pliers to tighten the screwed-in bolt and pull it in your direction;
carefully remove the self-tapping screw with the “plug”;
remove the shock absorber from the grooves.

To remove the second damper, repeat the procedure described, turning the washing machine on its left side. It is very important to find a drill that is suitable in diameter and length.

If you can’t get to the shock absorber struts even this way, you’ll have to remove the SMA tank and try again.

We purchase and install new spare parts

It is logical that when replacing, new shock absorbers will be needed. You can purchase components for the Hotpoint Ariston washing machine at service centers or online from suppliers. To select a suitable damper, you should know the brand and serial number of the SMA model. You can also remove the worn-out element and show it to the consultant, with a request to select a similar part. To change the stand, you will have to do the following: new shock absorbers

insert the damper with force, ensuring that it fits into the special grooves;
take the previously removed plug and carefully drive it into the shock absorber hole through two partitions;
set the “reverse” mode on the drill and unscrew the self-tapping screw from the clamp;
make sure the fastening is secure;
repeat the same steps with the second stand. To do this, you will have to turn the machine over again;
put the tank (if it has been removed);
attach the electric motor in place, secure it with fasteners;
connect the wiring supplying the motor;
put on the pulley drive belt.

This way the main part of the work will be completed. Return the machine to a vertical position and secure the back wall in place. Afterwards, be sure to test the washer. To do this, the “Spin” mode is started at maximum speed. If the former shaking is not observed, then the replacement was successful. When “jumping” and strong vibration persist, you should disassemble the machine again and tighten the damper clamps more tightly.