During the spin cycles for drainage/rinsing, my washer recently began to make a loud rattling/grinding noise, most prominently near the bottom of the washer. A couple of taps/fist pounds at the front/bottom of the washer seems to have a temporary affect of changing or diminishing the noise. I've tried to move the basket all around in an attempt to dislodge anything that might be stuck along the side (bra underwires, etc), but the noise persists. I'd like to know how to safely open the machine up (and close it when done) to look inside for a possible foreign object and to evaluate the motor/drive/belt, etc. I'm a first-timer for this, so the more detail the better. I'm pretty handy with most things, so I'm looking forward to this challenge.

Allan Churukian, May 2008

Not familiar with the machine but it reads to me like you're in need of a bearing replacement on the drum. It is a doable job if your confident with the old hand tools. But if you have any doubts as its a water/ electric mix in washers remember (not a persons friend together; think electrocution!) then get someone in.

Books from local library (Haynes manual for one) explain about this type of repair in generic terms.

Good Luck

Mark R, May 2008