My Kenmore Direct Drive Is Grinding While Spinning

Motor Coupling

• A faulty motor coupler can produce a grinding noise during the spin cycle. In direct drive washing machines, the motor coupler takes the place of a belt. The coupler contains plastic parts, which are susceptible to wear and tear. When the parts wear out, it results in a reduction of power to the transmission and prohibits the agitator and spin basket from moving.

Transmission

• A problem with the transmission can also cause grinding sounds when the machine is spinning or agitating. There may be an internal problem with the transmission itself, or a part of the spin tube may have broken off. In addition, there may a faulty nylon gear in the transmission.

Brake Shoes

• The washing machine may emit grinding noises while spinning as a result of faulty brake shoes. If the brake shoe roller metal becomes too soft and the rollers are dry from a lack of lubrication, they will begin to drag. Dragging brake shoes can cause other problems including wearing down the motor coupler, the clutch and the brake shoes themselves.

Other Considerations

• A frozen pulley pump can also cause the washing machine to produce grinding noises during the spin process, if it becomes seized or frozen. In addition, an object may have become lodged under the agitator, and this could be causing the grinding sounds. Also, if the washing machine’s springs are damaged, or there are cracks in the washer’s main structure, this will also produce grinding noises.