Spin problems may also be caused if the machine reckons the load is out of balance, rearrange the load. If problem persists could possibly be a fault in the out of balance detector switch or the suspension and damping system.
Various methods are used to detect out-of-balance conditions. At the low end is a combination of mechanical switches that sense when the drum movement exceeds an established safety threshold. If excessive motion is generated, the drum itself will activate the switches and turn off the machine. A more sophisticated approach is that of monitoring variations in the machine’s electric motor torque, speed or the amount of power drawn. Most machines now electronically monitor the motor during the slow distribution section leading up to the spin. If the load is out of balance, the motor wont be allowed to spin. A modern washing machine will try to balance the load a certain amount of times but if it can't, it will either reach the end of the program without spinning, or it will fail to spin and turn off. Some washing machines may allow a slow spin if the clothes are reasonably balanced, but then unless they settle down, will not allow a higher spin, leaving the clothes much wetter than normal. Some machines will indicate that they haven't been able to balance the load and have aborted the spin - others dont and simply shut down with the clothes still wet.
Repair and service your own washing machine. Go to www.2ndwave.co.uk/manual.html
dannyboy, November 2008
