FIXED 110.28942890 Kenmore 90 Plus Series Washer. Thumping during spin cycle.

[hamilton101]

Model Number

110.28942890

Brand

Sears Kenmore

Age

More than 10 years

Hi -
Washer was was out of balance and thumping during spin cycle. After rebalancing, had the same thump-thump-thump, but not as severe.
Rebalanced load further, ran through rinse, and then a second spin OK. High speed spin had no noise, but thumping resumed as the rinse water was added.

Details in the attached video.

Thank you.

 

[Jake]

It could be the motor or motor switch.

Either the centrifugal mechanism in the motor is not working or the motor switch is bad. The start winding in the motor is only meant to have power applied for the 1-2 seconds it takes to start the motor and then it is switched out of circuit by the centrifugal mechanism activating the motor switch. If it doesn't disconnect the start winding, it will burn up the capacitor and can damage the winding. You can test the switch and see if it's bad.

If the washer works ok on slow speed, then the centrifugal mechanism in the motor is working. Unplug the washer, then Check continuity between the two outermost terminals of the switch. With the switch in place, it should read as a dead short. Pulling the switch away from the motor releases the switch lever arm and now the reading should be an open circuit.

Here's the motor switch for your model:
Manufacturer's Number: WP8529896


Here's the motor for your model:
WP3352287 Motor-Drive


Jake

 

[hamilton101]

Hi Jake -

I metered the switch and the circled contact stayed open when I worked the white lever to close it. Good diagnosis!

The inside of the cover over the other contacts is blackened, maybe from arcing? I think that black stuff got onto the other contact, preventing the connection.

I filed the dirty contacts and gave them a shot of contact cleaner. Washer worked normally for one load. I think I'll get a spare switch in case this happens again.

Allen

 

[Jake]

Good find Allen.

Thanks for the update!

 

[hamilton101]

ps - I have shown my appreciation at the indicated location, below. In this and other problems, Jake's information has been spot-on, letting me fix a bunch of appliances for my friends, neighbors, and family.

 

[Jake]

Thanks Allen!