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How to Replace an LG Washer Bearing

Amanda Flanigan

If your LG washing machine begins to make a grinding noise or does not spin correctly, the tub bearing probably needs replacing. You can call an expensive appliance repair person to replace the bearing or, with a few common tools, you can perform the repair yourself.

Disassembling the LG washer depends heavily on the model type you have. For best results, refer to your specific LG washer owner’s manual for proper disassembling instructions. In addition, be aware that trying to repair the washing machine without an LG-approved repair person voids the appliance's warranty.

  1. Remove the LG washer power cord from the electrical outlet to prevent the risk of electrical shock. Locate the water supply valves, which are typically behind or near the washer and twist the valves until they are in the "off" position.

  2. Disconnect the clamps securing the water supply hoses to the back of the LG washer. Pull the hoses off gently and let them drain into a bucket.

  3. Remove the screws securing the back of the top panel with a Phillips-head screwdriver. The number of screws depends on the model of LG washer you have. Pull and lift the panel off the washer housing unit.

  4. Locate the ribbon connector at the back of the washer’s control panel and carefully unplug it. Remove the detergent dispenser by pulling it off its housing. Unscrew the screws located at the right and left of the unit and lift the control panel from the washer cabinet.

  5. Remove the nut located at the bottom of the detergent dispenser assembly with a wrench. Alternatively, the assembly may be attached with a screw instead of a nut. If this is the case, remove the screw with the appropriate screwdriver. Lift the dispenser assembly out of the washer housing.

  6. Prop open the washer door and carefully remove the wire that secures the rubber gasket to the door. Roll the gasket carefully inside the tub. Locate the screws securing the door switch and front panel together. Use a screwdriver to unfasten these screws. Remove the door switch from the housing and disconnect the wiring connector.

  7. Disconnect the drainage hose retaining clip located at the pump filter cover. Unscrew the mounting screw securing the pump filter cover in place and carefully pry the filter cover off with a flat-head screwdriver. Remove any remaining mounting screws located behind the filter cover and on the front panel. Pull the panel toward you and remove it out of the washer cabinet.

  8. Remove the rear service panel from the back of the washer cabinet by unfastening the screws securing it in place and lifting it off the housing. Use a wrench to loosen the locking bolt at the end of the washer’s drive shaft. Tap the drive shaft carefully with a rubber mallet to free the worn bearing.

  9. Pull the inner tub through the front of the washing machine and lay it on a blanket. Locate the snap rings at the bearing assembly and remove them with a pair of snap ring pliers. Carefully remove the bearing assembly from the inner tub by tapping it with a rubber mallet.

  10. Clean rust and debris from the bearing assembly housing by rubbing the surface with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper. Wipe the surface clean with a paper towel. Spray a thin layer of aerosol lubricant on the bearing housing. Repeat the cleaning and lubricating process on the shaft protruding from the back of the washer’s inner tub.

  11. Position the new bearing on the housing and tap it into place carefully with the rubber mallet. Assemble the LG washing machine using the reversed disassembled order.

The Drip Cap

  • If your LG washing machine begins to make a grinding noise or does not spin correctly, the tub bearing probably needs replacing.
  • You can call an expensive appliance repair person to replace the bearing or, with a few common tools, you can perform the repair yourself.
  • Disassembling the LG washer depends heavily on the model type you have.
  • Pull and lift the panel off the washer housing unit.
  • Unscrew the screws located at the right and left of the unit and lift the control panel from the washer cabinet.
  • Unscrew the mounting screw securing the pump filter cover in place and carefully pry the filter cover off with a flat-head screwdriver.
  • Pull the panel toward you and remove it out of the washer cabinet.
  • Clean rust and debris from the bearing assembly housing by rubbing the surface with a piece of fine-grit sandpaper.
  • Repeat the cleaning and lubricating process on the shaft protruding from the back of the washer’s inner tub.

Check out this related video from Homesteady on Youtube.