How to Replace the Damper Pads on an Admiral Washer

Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to avoid electrical injury while replacing the damper pads. Close the valves that supply the hot and cold water to the appliance; these valves are usually behind the washer.

Use duct tape to secure the washer lid in the closed position. Insert a putty knife between the top cover and front panel. Locate the retaining clips approximately 4 inches in from each side of the top cover. Press the clips with the putty knife until they release. Raise the top cover and tip it back as far as it will go.

Take out the two screws along the top edge of the front panel, using a hex screwdriver. Pull the front panel off of the washer cabinet and lean it against a wall, enamel side out, to avoid scratching the finish. Slip the drive belt off the drive system pulleys.

Remove the bottom nuts from the eyebolts securing the tub centering springs. Mark the position of the nuts on the eyebolts with electrical tape to make reassembly easier.

Tip the washer back to rest against the wall at an angle and place a 4-by-4-inch block of wood under the transmission pulley. Pull the machine forward so the transmission pulley rests on top of the wood block; this raises the tub, transmission and damper assembly several inches to provide access to the damper pads.

Scrape the old damper pads from the base of the washer, using the putty knife. Scrub the area vigorously with rubbing alcohol to remove any adhesive residue.

Brush rubber adhesive onto the base of the washer and apply the new damper pads. Position the pads 5/8 inch apart and 3/32 inch away from the center opening in the washer base.