Washing machine drum stuck

gt568

As it says above really, the drum on my washing machine won't spin...it appears to be seized..

Any suggestions

Ebe_Scrooge

Could be any number of things. Ideas that spring to mind are :

1. Something trapped between the drum and the casing - wires from bras are a common culprit.
2. Bearings have seized.
3. Drive belt broken ( in this case you would be able to turn it by hand, but it won't be driven by the motor ).

Depending on the model, and your level of mechanical aptitude, it may be possible to fix any of these yourself. I won't say it's a simple job, but I've successfully repaired many washing machines over the years. To make a sweeping generalisation, if it's something trapped between the drum and the casing, that's not too bad, if it's the bearings then that is a more tricky job. There are plenty of "repair manual" type things available online if you fancy having a bash at it yourself, and spares are easily available online as well.

Try finding a local "domestic spares" type shop if you can, you'll probably find they can repair stuff a lot cheaper than the manufacturers own engineers - unless you still have a manufacturer's warranty on it.

gt568

It's not the belt, and I suspect not a bra wire....

How would I know if it was the bearings, it's only just a year old and as such just outside warranty.

Ebe_Scrooge

I'll start by saying I'm no expert .... but in my experience, bearings will tend to make sort of grinding / rubbing noise when they're on their way out - you'd have been hearing this for a while now. And they'd have to have completely collapsed to cause the drum to seize completely - I'd be surprised if this was the case on a year-old machine.

Afraid I don't know what else to suggest. Try removing the top panel ( UNPLUG THE MACHINE FIRST !!!! ) have a poke around and just see if you can spot anything obvious - particularly around the door and seal area. If nothing comes to light it may be time to look for a local repair man I'm afraid.