How to Replace the Counterweights in a Washing Machine
- 1). Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet.
- 2). Loosen any screws around the area of the control panel. Remove and set aside.
- 3). Insert the edge of a putty knife underneath the right front edge of the machine, just below the cabinet top lip. Gently wiggle the putty knife back and forth until you can feel the clip underneath the top give way. Move to the left front corner of the cabinet and repeat this process.
- 4). Lift the top of the cabinet backward gently. The control panel should swing upward as well. Rest the top of the machine against the wall.
- 5). Loosen the screws holding the sides of the cabinet to the front cabinet face with a screwdriver. Some washers may use hex bolts instead of screws, in which case you can use a hex head screwdriver or socket wrench. Pull off the front cabinet face. Loosen the screws holding the sides of the cabinet in place against the back of the washer. Lift the panels out of the way. Some washers may have a one-piece cabinet composed of the sides and front. In this case, loosen the screws located on the sides of the cabinet holding it to the back of the appliance.
- 6). Support the drum with one hand. Gently tilt the washing machine back onto the floor. Have an assistant help you if this is a heavy machine.Take care not to damage the top of the machine or control panel when leaning the washer back.
- 7). Locate the counterweights on the bottom of the tub. They are usually metal and in a half moon shape. There could be two, three or four of them, depending on your washing machine model. Use the socket wrench to loosen the screws holding the weights in place on the tub and remove them.
- 8). Secure the new washing machine weights to the bottom of the washer tub with the bolts and the socket wrench.
- 9). Stand the washing machine back up. Replace the cabinet and secure with the screws or bolts.
- 10
Lower the top and control panel into place and secure.
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