SQ new sound during tumbling

[teknikleespekng]

It started about a week ago. Its noticeable when the tub starts turning after it has stopped. Ive taken a short clip so you can hear the sound. Something I should be concerned about?

http://smg.beta.photobucket.com/user/Lisa63/media/NewProject1_zps23836024.mp4.html

 

[pulsator]

My AFN50R makes the same noise on larger loads, I'll be interested to see if it's indicative of a problem!

 

[teknikleespekng]

I feel slightly better knowing

that its just not my machine or my imagination. It doesnt matter how much is in the machine, it does it for every wash. I dont know if its a sound that the machine would typically make after "break-in" or as you said indicative of a problem.

 

[mrb627]

Sounds?

Are you talking about that slight metallic sound? Mine does that with heavy loads too. I don't think it is a problem, although I am not sure of the source either.

Malcolm

 

[teknikleespekng]

Yes thats the sound

I guess then its not unusual. Thanks for the replies

 

[vsc]

Belt

That is belt slip from what I can hear. If you remove the lower panel I suspect you will see black particles below the motor area.

 

[cleanteamofny]

After using two front loaders in my life, that is not normal!
The wash cycle is the virtually silent in every machine except when load are slapping against the drum....

What is going on there does not sound right to me, check and see if shipping straps are completely removed!

 

[teknikleespekng]

I will take off the front panel and check

The installation guys took off all the shipping straps and left them with us in case we ever needed them.

The machine was silent when I first got it. Is this something I should call SQ about?

 

[teknikleespekng]

Took off front plate

No black particles around the motor area. DH says belt feels fine and not slipping when he moves it by hand.

Shipping braces removed.

Ran it through a rinse/spin cycle. Not really noticeable when the machine is empty. Im guessing its more obvious when there is weight in the tub. I guess I will be calling SQ on Monday and see what they say.

 

[mrb627]

Belt Slipping

I had concluded on my machine that it was a slight belt slippage causing the noise that you hear. Attributed to the hi torque one horsepower motor which exceeds most all other front loaders on the market. The only time I ever really noticed the noise was the initial tumble after the pulse spinning ends and rinse fill begins. I assumed that this was an attempt to shake clothing loose from the tub. Perhaps it isn't, but I never found it concerning enough to place a service call. Please let us know what Speed Queen has to say about it.

Malcolm

 

[teknikleespekng]

Malcolm, I will use your information to help me explain to SQ the type and possible source of the noise.

Its not terribly loud, and my kenmore never made that sound.

I will keep you all updated.

 

[vsc]

In my case the slipping was sufficient to cause wear on the belt. I would have SQ check the belt tension.

 

[combo52]

SQ FL Washer Noise

From the sound of your video I would not give it another thought, there is very likely nothing wrong with your washer.

 

[teknikleespekng]

Waiting to hear back

Sent an SQ representative my video.

BTW, for some reason my video could not be found. It's there. I uploaded 2 more times with the same error. Weird. I guess that's why its in BETA, lol.

Will let you guys know when I do hear something!

 

[teknikleespekng]

Update

"Please arrange for a service call. I was told that most likely you have a belt slipping or a bad bearing in the motor."

Im now hearing a squeaking sound in that same area during the pulse spins.

I have someone coming out tomorrow afternoon to check the machine.

 

[teknikleespekng]

Update on service call

The guy came out and we loaded in some jeans. Ran the cycle and he heard the noise. He said its the main bearing. He said it needs to sit in place for a while and get some 50+ loads so the bearing gets seated. I should use the machine and if in a month the sound doesnt go away, they'll have to change the bearing. He did ask if it always made that sound and I said no.

Thoughts?

 

[teknikleespekng]

No comments?

I dunno about advice I got from the service man. I am going to contact the sales rep I have been talking to and bounce it off of him.

Now, if it is the main bearing, should I have the bearing replaced or see if they will just replace the machine?

 

[combo52]

Noisey Main Bearing On A New SQ FL Washer

I do have some dough about a noisy bearing on a new SQ FL washer, but it is possible. I would keep using the machine and see what happens. I have seen cases of a noisy sealed ball bearing in various types of washing machines and it usually does not get worse for years and years and years, almost all bearing failures are caused by water getting into the bearing area and in this case the failure will occur fairly quickly.

 

If you wanted the complete machine replaced you would likely have to talk the dealer that sold you the machine into doing so. If I was the dealer that sold you the machine I WOULD NOT replace the machine for you as the complete bearing and seal assembly can easily be replaced in the home. This is one of the beauties of this FL washer, not only does it have a great warranty but it can be easily repaired WHEN something goes wrong and like EVERY washer, automobile, etc ever built something will go wrong sooner but hopefully later.

 

[teknikleespekng]

Thanks combo

Im not against bearing replacement as long as it doesnt cause other issues with the machine, for example removing the boot and then having leaks. The service man said that it was a 2.5-3hr job to replace the bearing if it needs it.

I will continue to use the machine as usual. At least this has been documented with SQ.

And FTR, I would still whole-heartedly recommend this machine. I still love my SQ!