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I have a GE Spacemaker Laundry WSM2700. The washer makes a strange cranking noise as it is in the agitating/washing mode and when it is in the spin mode, it literally sounds like a jet engine. No unusual smells emerge. Just very noisy and sounds unhealthy.
Optional Information: Brand: GE Type of Appliance: Washer Already Tried: Tried doing smaller loads, same problem. Tried to see if it was a balance issue, not so.
Hi, thanks for using JustAnswer.com. Please remember, I do not get paid for my time and expertise until you accept. When spinning, is the noise very loud and like a deep howl or growl? Has it gotten worse over time? Notice any water leakage?Kelly
No water leakage. It sounds in the spin cycle like initially a growl and then a howl. Like a jet engine starting up and running. During agitation mode, it sounds like something is grating against something else. I opened up the front of it, looked underneath and it looks like a part next to the belt may be damaged, though I have no idea what it is called. It's not the motor nor is it the main washer shaft (directly beneath the washer body), but it's the smaller looking wheel next to the belt in between the motor and the main washer wheel thing. I'm thinking, I can't fix this myself, need someone to do it for me.
That is the belt tensioner, or idler that you are seeing. That may be where the agitate noise is coming from, but the growl/howl is coming from the tub bearing. This is a huge job and I would recommend having it professionally done. I do have the service manual for it if you would like to attempt it, but I will forewarn you, it is a big job. The idler is number 1530, the upper tub bearing is number 1519 and the lower tub bearing is part of the transmission assembly, not pictured.Clicking the “ACCEPT” button will NOT close this question. Once you accept, you may refer back to this thread, AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE, until your problem is resolved! Also, please leave positive feedback after you accept, this is important!
Cost wise would it be better to just get a whole new washer or do the repair? My concern about getting a whole new washer is that it has to match the dryer on top, not sure if any stores still carry a washer that could match the dryer since this model is so old.
These machines are sold as a set only, in that they are connected and share components, like the control panel. This repair, professionally done, will run > $500. If you do it yourself, you can plan to spend around $350-400 for the parts. If it is more than 8 years old, I would strongly encourage replacing the machine.
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