So in our last episode about Scrubby, my "gently used" washing machine, we learned how to replace an inlet valve. At the bottom though, you also saw that dreaded error code: F-21. A quick search through the machine's manual suggested that the drain pump was either clogged or needed to be replaced. Long and short of it: water could now get in but couldn't get out. As with the first time, out came the tools as I set out to get this washing machine working again.
Tools required for this repair:
Cordless Drill
1/4" Hex Nut Driver
Philips Head Screw Bit
Bit Extender
Channel Lock Pliers
Rectangular Cake Pan
Wet/Dry Vacuum
Step One:
Safety first! Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet!
Step Two:
Using your cordless drill, the bit extender and the 1/4" hex nut driver remove the three machine screws that are found below the bottom front cover of the machine. Once those are removed, slightly nudge the bottom shroud upwards and swing out from the bottom.
Step Three:
Start by placing the cake pan under the drain pump chamber which is that white thing on the right side.
Now... this is where you get to learn from my misadventures!
Step Four:
As you unscrew the cap, a TORRENT of dirty washing machine water will quickly follow suit!!! This is where you better have your vacuum ready or more towels than I had! Anyways... Slowly unscrew the cap and let the water drain out then re-screw to close when your vacuum is filled up.
You will notice that there will be other kinds of treasures in there as well... If you're lucky some of it may have some value!
Step Five:
Once the chamber is empty of water, give it a quick clean then re-insert the cap and filter. At this point, you may have solved your mystery but, again, Scrubby had other plans for me...
Turns out I would have to replace the pump assembly all together!
Step Six:
Repeat every step as previously describe to ensure that the drain pump assembly and washing machine are both empty. Once, that's completed tip the machine towards the back to access the screws that secure the drain pump assembly to the chassis of the machine. Using your cordless drill, and philips head bit, remove the screws and slowly tip the machine back onto its base.
Step Seven:
Remove the faulty the drain pump assembly by nudging the assembly to the right to release the rubber mount and lift out. Using the channel lock pliers, release the hose clamps and free the assembly from the hose. Finally, remove the old assembly from the chassis of the machine.
Step Eight:
Repeat all the step in reverse order to install the new part (again, big thanks to General Appliance!!) and voila!
I'm happy to report that Scrubby has been happy since the new parts have been in and I'll hopefully get lots of service from it!
Take care,
Al