Kenmore front loader needs new bearing/drum?

[Wash-me-blues]

I have a Kenmore front loader, model 29052, which worked fine until the other day when the drum started REALLY clanking on spin cycle. I took it apart and sure enough, the main bearing/spindle assembly (which seems to be fused with the pulley) is shot. Apparently it's a one-piece job? Any help or cross reference for parts to replace it (aside from the $274 Repairclinic.com wants for a new tub assembly) would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

 

[jetcone]

As I understand it...

That is the best you are going to do for that machine. My Gibson is starting to do the same thing and JOhn told me it isn't worth the money to fix as a paid repairman when you can go out and buy a new machine for $500. Bad design on their part. I really like the washability of my Gibson too! Mine is about 5 years old which is way too young.

IF you have the time then it is worth the part for another 5 years I guess.

cheers
jet

 

[launderess]

Rear bearing failure is a "common" complaint of the FriGeMore units,with about 5 years being the average "break time". If a unit lasts beyond the 5 years it seems it will survive the duration. By "common" I don't mean all units suffer bearing failure, but in numbers that it is an often reported problem

You were given the correct information in that the entire drum assembly has to be changed not just the bearings. As this is a costy repair job,you probably are better off just buying a new washer.

You can check fleaBay, now and then the bearing/drum assembly for these units pops up.

I'm curious to know if recent generation models of FriGeMore washers have noted and corrected this problem. Or is it always blamed on customer error? One person posted that Sears told him the bearings went out because he used too much detergent and that caused the bearings to fail, and they would not replace the unit.

Launderess

 

[Wash-me-blues]

Update!!!!
So I was able to actually remove the pulley (with a puller) thereby allowing the outer drum to be seperated, revealing the inner drum (tub) and spindle/spider assembly and BANG! two of the three 'spider' arms are broken! Now I'm willing to bet that not only is this a definite maunufacturing defect but since there seems to be common agreement that these machines 'last about five years' and due to the overwhelming amount of labour involved, the main bearing deficit is actually this problem, which IS covered under Kenmore's 'Lifetime warranty'. I just can't wait to explain that fact to them! Stay tuned! CRT

 

[Wash-me-blues]

Sears to the rescue!!!!!

I managed to find a Sears parts/repair center and calmly walked in with my inner stainless steel (with spider and spindle attached, of course) and politely said "I have a parts issue that I believe is covered under warranty". The counter man was astonished to see a machine disassembled to that point (it's really not rocket science, as I'm sure some of the appliance buffs on this forum can attest to!), looked up my name and purchase date, mentioned the machine itself was out of warranty (by four months) and then asked to see my brochure with the "Lifetime Warranty on stainless steel drum" notation. He then said, "yup, you're right", looked up the part, placed a drop-ship order for it, and had the manager and myself sign it! Talk about service! Man, I haven't had that type of interaction on the retail level in YEARS!! I'm inclined to think this clerk and Sears deserve a written letter of praise, for nothing else than to help balance the complaints. Sure, it'll take two weeks+ for the part to arrive but sure beats spending $550+ to replace what otherwise is a perfectly functioning machine. Wash-me Blues

 

[DADoES]

Bwahahaaa!! BRAVO!!

 

[jetcone]

Bwahahaaa??

Dadoes how do I pronounce that one?? Its kind of like Brewhaha but yet.................not

Wash ME that is an incredible story! Of course I can't try that with my Gibson since it is not a Kenmore and I bought it from an independant dealer in the Washington DC area who will remain unnamed since he is a personal friend and mentor etc etc...

Have fun on the reassembly! Use lots of Anti-seize when you reinstall it!

jet

 

[scott55405]

Jet, when you "pronounce" it, think of those mad scientist types from the Saturday morning cartoons...there would of course be a certain inflection required as well. ;-)

 

[Brent-Aucoin]

Way to go!

That is great about them treating you so kind.
I am sure that 99% of the people just get rid of them, not knowing it is a defect like yours.
Would they have paid for the labor for a tech to do it?
Congradulations!
Brent

 

[Brent-Aucoin]

Jon Call Electrolux

Hey there.
I bet if you call Electrolux and tell them your story, they would honor it and ship you the part. I am sure that Sears will go after them for the price of the part that Wash-Me got.
It might be worth a try.
Brent

 

[wringingwet]

I had the same problem with mine a few years ago

Greetings fellow washer fans

I had the same problem with my Frigidaire Crown Front loader after five years. and with many emails they finally refunded me about 80% of the purchase price.

Philippe

 

[jetcone]

Not a bad Idea

Hi Brent:
How are you ?? Come on down to Boston!

I may try that calling Electrolux , I checked my tub this weekend and it is not as loose as I remember but it is not new either.

jon