One of the most serious breakdowns of an automatic washing machine from any manufacturer is drum bearing failure. Even though they themselves are inexpensive, during the replacement you will have to completely disassemble the device, dismantle the panels, saw the washing machine tank, and then glue it together and put it in place. This is a labor-intensive process, but it is quite possible to cope with the work on your own.
Prerequisites for getting started
The tank is the main part of the washing machine; this statement is true for all models of Indesit, Ardo, Samsung and other manufacturers. It is inside the tank that the drum rotates, and it is in it that the washing process takes place. Based on the type of design, a distinction is made between the tank being collapsible and non-dismountable. If in the first case it is easy to disassemble it - just unscrew a few bolts, then in the second case, in addition to the tool, you will also need ingenuity.
As already mentioned, cut a non-separable tank needed to replace drum bearings, but not only. This procedure is necessary in the following cases:
- drum shaft deformation;
- damage to the tank walls;
- blockage of the drain hole;
- failure of the drain valve.
Choosing a tool or how to cut a tank
The success of this operation depends on two mandatory conditions: accuracy during the work and the right tool. You need to start with the tool. The following requirements apply to it:
- the thinnest possible cut;
- smooth cut without waves and burrs;
- complete control over the work process.
Hacksaw for metal
Perhaps the best tool of all. Perfect for cut the tank of an Ariston washing machine, LG, Samsung and a number of other popular brands. The cut is thin, even, and neat. If the cutting is done with high quality, then during subsequent assembly there will definitely not be any difficulties. The tool is almost perfect, but its only significant drawback is the fact that you will have to work with your hands, and the event itself will take a lot of time.
Electric jigsaw
With the help of a jigsaw, the same work can be done much faster, and without much effort. This tool is perfect for cutting the tank of Electrolux, Indesit, Ardo washing machines. The cut turns out to be thin, but the craftsman will need to be as careful as possible; he must constantly ensure that the tool does not “lead”, and also control the output of the file, otherwise the surface of the drum can be damaged.
Boning saw
A wood saw with a wide blade and fine teeth also gives good results.The seam is slightly wider than when using a hacksaw for metal, but you can cut the tank in significantly less time, and thanks to the design features of the tool, it is easy to control the accuracy of the cut. Of course, as in the case of a hacksaw, this is manual labor, with all the ensuing consequences.
Grinder and circular saw
Not the best tool to cut through a washing machine tub. The main problem with the grinder is that it does not saw, but melts plastic. As a result: torn melted edges, wide seams, high probability of damaging the surface. At the same time, the grinder is perfect for cutting stuck fasteners of a metal tank, for example, those that are installed in Bosch machines in the upper price segment. The circular saw also has disadvantages. It cuts well, but “walks”, you need to constantly keep it on the cutting line.
As is easy to see, there is no ideal tool, and there cannot be one. To quickly and efficiently cut the tank of any washing machine you need to choose the best option for each site. For example, you can use a jigsaw on a smooth surface, and process areas with protruding elements with a saw (a backhoe or a hacksaw).
Main stages of work
The first thing to do is disassemble the washing machine and remove the tank. The disassembly procedure is individual and directly depends on the brand and model of the washing machine.
The tank should be placed on a flat surface and inspected.It is better to saw it along the weld seam closer to the sealing collar, but before you take up the tool you should prepare for subsequent assembly. To do this, you need to drill holes with a diameter of 3-5 mm in increments of 50-80 mm along the perimeter of the seam; subsequently bolts will be screwed into them, which will ensure the reliability and tightness of the assembled tank.
Now you can saw. The most important thing in this matter is the lack of haste. It doesn’t matter whether you use a hand tool or an electric one, you need to achieve the most even cut possible. Saw in a circle, changing tools if necessary. The result should be a relatively thin ring with a cuff and a kind of glass with a drum. The work is done, you can proceed to replacing parts.
An automatic washing machine with a non-removable plastic drum, be it Ardo, Samsung, Indesit or any other, has the advantage of a relatively low cost, which can result in difficulties during repairs.
Sawing a drum is not an easy task and requires precision and perseverance, but it can be done and is worth it. Self-repaired drum will allow you to save significantly, and the machine will delight its owners with freshly washed laundry for a long time.
