Replacing Ariston Washing Machine Drum Bearings

In this guide, we'll provide you with a step-by-step process for replacing the bearings using common household tools. While we're demonstrating this procedure on a WF series Hotpoint, the same steps can apply to the WM series, as well as Ariston, Creda, and Indesit models, among others.

We would recommend you watch our video since we're showing you how easily you can replace your washing machine drum bearing.

Before we start, ensure that the appliance is unplugged from the electricity supply for safety.

Getting Started: Positioning the Drum and Loosening the Nut

First, position the drum face down. To prevent the drum from turning, insert a piece of wood or the end of a hammer between one of the recesses and the wheel. Using a 13mm spanner or socket, loosen the nut. It might be quite tight due to the application of Loctite and, on rare occasions, the end might even break off. However, it should typically come off easily.

If you don't have a Loctite glue, you can buy via our affiliate link: https://amzn.to/3UteGJm

Afterwards, you should be able to lift the pulley off. If it's stuck, try prying it gently, but be careful not to apply too much force as you'll be applying pressure onto a plastic drum.

Disassembling the Ariston Drum and Removing the Bearings

Next, place a piece of wood against the shaft to protect it from damage, then give it a solid tap. This action will separate the shaft from the bearings. Now, you'll need to remove all the screws that hold the two parts of the tub together. On this machine, we're using a size 30 torque, but sizes may vary between models. You can find all the tools you need on our website. To find parts, simply input your model number or the description into our search bar, and you'll receive a list of available parts for your machine.

Separate the two parts of the drum using a screwdriver. Then, tap the inner drum shaft to release it from the outer casing. You'll see the spider, which is heavily corroded in this case and needs replacing.

The drum has four location lugs that align and hold the two parts of the drum together. These need to be protected, as does the heater, when knocking out the bearings. To do this, place a few pieces of wooden 2x3s on the floor. When knocking out the bearings, ensure you do it evenly to avoid distorting the casing in which they sit. This area should remain smooth, as you can see here.

Make sure the drum is correctly positioned on the pieces of wood when you're knocking out the inner bearing. This action will also knock out the seal. Remember to always support the drum on the pieces of wood to avoid damaging the lugs.

Installing New Bearings to Ariston Washing Machine

We'll now show you how to install a new set of bearings. However, you don't always have to change the bearings and spider together. If the spider is in good condition, you can sometimes just replace the bearings if they are sold separately.

Before installing the new bearings, make sure you clean everything thoroughly to prevent any particles from getting inside. Once you've done that, start by loading the bearings into the drum tub. If you feel inside the inner edge of the bearing housing, you'll find a small lip. This is because the water seal is slightly larger than the bearing. It also helps line up the bearing before you start knocking it in.

Use a piece of wood to tap the bearing in until it's flush with the tub. Once it's flush, use a bar or chisel to tap the bearing further. Be very careful to only hit the outer race (edge) of the bearing. Hitting any other part of the bearing can damage it. Tap evenly around the bearing to ensure it goes in straight.

Please remember that the whole video includes step-by-step and detailed explanations, which may help you reduce your repair time.

If you need any parts for your washing machine bearings, you can find them on our site.

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