How to Take Apart a GE Washing Machine

Taking apart a GE washing machine is not difficult. Washing machines for the most part are of the same basic design, so no matter who makes a particular brand, they generally come apart the same way. The primary difference in disassembling a machine is whether the machine is a front-load or a top-load model. The average do-it-yourselfer can repair any problem on a washing machine with a few basic tools. This allows you to avoid paying high labor rates for a technician to make simple repairs.

Things You'll Need

• Putty knife
• Screwdriver set
• Nut driver set
• Spanner wrench
• Hammer
• Adjustable wrench

Instructions

1. Unplug the power cord from the power source. Never attempt to service a GE washing machine that still has power running to it. Insert a putty knife into the gap between the top of the machine and the front panel to release the retaining clips. The clips line up with the grooves on the machine lid. Push back on each clip to release the front.

2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver between the washtub and the top of the washer on the inside and release the lid switch. You have to push back on the switch while pushing it up at the same time. On some models, you will need to pull the top forward to unplug the lid switch. To do this, remove the hex screws from the frame on the front of the machine near the top, using a nut driver. Pull the top forward to unplug the wiring harness, then remove it from the machine.

3. Remove the screws from the tub retaining straps on the inside top of the GE washer, using a nut driver. Disconnect the tube on the side of the washtub. Unplug the wiring harness from the motor at the bottom of the machine. Remove the ground screw at the bottom of the washer frame, using a Phillips screwdriver. Loosen the hose clamp using a Phillips screwdriver and pull the hose from the pump.

4. Unhook the suspension rods from the washtub. Remove the washtub from the frame by pulling it out of the front. Pull off the top half of the agitator. This will give you access to the retaining screw in the bottom half. Remove that screw using a nut driver and pull the bottom half of the agitator from the washtub. Remove the spanner nut from the bottom of the washtub, using a spanner wrench. Use a hammer to tap the spanner if necessary.

5. Remove the top cover from the washtub by pulling it out. Remove the spin basket from the washtub. Lift the split ring from the shaft in the washtub, using a screwdriver. Turn the washtub upside down on the floor. Remove the pulley nut with an adjustable wrench. Insert a screwdriver into the hole in the pulley to hold it still while you loosen the nut. Remove the screws securing the motor bracket, using a nut driver.

6. Remove the bolts from the drive mechanism, using a nut driver. Pull the bracket off the washtub to access the transmission.

References

• Appliance-Repair-It.com: GE Washer Disassembly Guide