Ultimate Guide: How To Take Apart An LG ThinQ Washing Machine (2023 Edition)

This guide will comprehensively show you how to dismantle and disassemble LG ThinQ washing machines following a step-by-step approach, incorporating insights from a helpful video

Safety First!

• Unplug the washing machine before starting disassembly.
• Organize screws and parts meticulously to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Tools You'll Need:

• Screwdrivers (various sizes)
• Pliers
• Optional: Door band pliers, Multimeter, Hook (for removing element)

Let's Begin!

1. Top Panel:

   • Remove the lid by pushing it back.

2. Control Panel:

   • Take out the soap drawer by pressing the button.
   • Unscrew the two control panel screws (often aluminum/stainless steel).
   • Disconnect the wiring (photographing connections for reference is recommended).
   • Remove the control panel and display circuit board.

3. Fill Assembly:

   • Detach the water valve, top hose, and soap box hose.
     • Check the water valve (related to IE and FE error codes) for dirt or jamming.
     • The soap box assembly can be cleaned for mold buildup.

4. Door Assembly:

   • Most LG doors are sold as a complete unit with hinges.
   • Unscrew the hinge and door screws.
   • Use a small screwdriver or door band pliers to pry open the door if needed.

5. Front Panel:

   • Remove the flap and hidden screw at the bottom.
   • Unscrew the two bottom screws.

6. Door Seal:

   • Use a small screwdriver or designated pliers to detach the door seal.

7. Door Lock:

   • Unscrew the two screws holding the door lock.
   • Check the electrical connection for burning (related to DE error code).
   • Press the clip button to remove the lock.

8. Main Panel:

   • Unscrew the top three screws and support the panel as you detach it.
   • Release the clips at the bottom to remove the panel entirely.

9. Program and Front Retaining Bar:

   • Unscrew and remove the program unit.
   • Detach the front retaining bar.

10. Inbalance Load Sensor:

• Take pictures of the wiring for reference (color-coded clips).
• Unclip and remove the sensor.

11. Circuit Board:

• Circuit boards can be faulty and are difficult to repair due to moisture-resistant encapsulation.
• Note the part number as replacements need to be compatible with your machine model.

12. Heating System:

• Cut cable ties and disconnect the connections to remove the heating element and NTC sensor.
• Use a multimeter to check the element (2 kΩ) and NTC sensor (resistance changes with temperature).

13. Pressure Bowl:

• Unscrew the bottom screw and detach the hose from the pressure bowl.
• Release the clip and remove the entire hose assembly.

14. Counterweights:

• Counterweights can crack and cause vibration or damage.
• Unscrew and remove the counterweights to replace the door seal.

15. Door Seal Replacement:

• With counterweights removed, detach the door seal hose and lift the seal for replacement.

16. Suspension Legs:

• Press down the pin on the front of each leg and slide it back to remove.
• Part numbers are typically located on the legs.

17. Motor Removal:

• Access the motor by removing the back panel.
• Disconnect the wiring and undo the spline bolt (sometimes glued with Loctite).
• Unscrew the stator bolts and detach the motor.

18. Drum Removal:

• Check the motor coupling for wear (common problem in heavy-load machines).
• Disconnect the pressure switch (related to PE and FE error codes).
• Detach the suppressor or filter (related to PF error code).
• Lift the drum carefully using designated lifting points (two people recommended).

19. Drum Bearings (Optional):

• LG drums are splittable for bearing replacement (separate video recommended).

Reassembly:

• Carefully reassemble the machine in the reverse order, ensuring proper connection of all parts.

Additional Tips:

• Refer to the video for detailed visual instructions
• Organize parts meticulously to avoid confusion during reassembly.
• Purchase replacement parts using your model number for compatibility.