I have a kenmore front load washing machine that is making a loud thumping sound when spinning. A repairman says the bearings are going bad ,but I can keep using it until it stops completely. then I will have to buy a new washer. Can the bearings be replaced in this washer It is model 417.41042000.

Most likely tub bearings and spider gear are bad.

Hi,

When my washer did that, I found that the shocks that hold the tub were bad...

Check out this tip I wrote about the noise and vibration that front load washers can make..

Washer Problems Washer noise when spinning

heatman101

It's probally the bearings are going bad. If you try to turn the drum by hand and it does not turn smoothly or has a rumbling sound, it means the bearings are bad. I had the same thing happen to my washer. Water seeped past the seal and the water started to rust out the inner bearing. You need to pull the washer apart to get to the bearings if you are handy. If not, the parts and labor are more than the price of a new machine.

Most noises from a washing machine occur during the spin cycle. If you hear loud thumping during the spin, the load of clothes may have become unbalanced. Stop the washer and redistribute the clothes, then re-start it. Repeat these steps if necessary.This will solve your problem.

yes this sounds very much like the bearings have badly worn.

this sounds like this could be the bearings,to check for this,open door and with yourhand lift the inner chrome drum and let it fall then lift again and if you feel a knocking sound and a lot of play in it then its the bearings,i know there should be movement in the drum but this will feel more of a knocking.

you got it,and the whole tub has to be replaced because it's all one piece-mike

• Hi,
• try these out:

1. Balance the load
   
2. Level the machine
   
3. Inspect the water pump for a blockage
   
4. Inspect the coupling
   
5. Inspect the transmission
   
6. Adjust the drive belt tension
   
7. Check the motor bearings
   
8. Check the drum brakes
   

please rate my suggestion...

my friend had this happen,apparrently a bearing was leaking then finally broke!

I just went through the same issue with my Kenmore front loading washing machine. I assumed (and a Sears repairman also told me) that it is the bearings. After I took the drum assembly out, I saw the rear drum broken and the inner tub hitting the outer tub. I ordered the outer drum assembly and only when I took the inner drum assembly out I realized the the "Spider" attached to the inner drum (and spindle) was broken. Entire drum assembly cost $417 + shipping and it may be cheaper in the long run to buy a new washer. I like the front loaders because they save water and good for the environment, but the US manufacturers have not yet perfected the technology like European manufacturers (or they don't want the machines to last too long just like cars). Anyway, I am looking into welding the spider tomorrow. If not will return the outer tub assembly and buy a top loading washer for $300!