My Fisher & Paykel Gentle Annie washing machine recently has recently started making loud screeching (high pitch) sound during the spin cycle. I opened up the back panel and noted there black ("rubber?") deposits splattered at the bottom of the machine. The motor drive belt appears to be OK, however not sure whether it is worn as I don't have a new one to compare with. What do I need to replace before it becomes serious?

Ken, April 2010

It will be the agitator shaft bearing assembly.....I have exactly the same problem.......trouble is F&P dont want to touch them any more as they are over 20 years old and NZ laws only state 7 years backup necessary etc etc etc.
Point being that to somehow disassemble it all,take out the bearings,go to an engineering shop and get replacement bearings......the type numbers are always stamped on the side of the bearings.
It is probably cheaper and less messy to go out and buy a new or 2nd hand washing machine these days.
Peter

Peter Cox, April 2010

Could be the belt or could be the bearings. Hard to say without being there to hear it. Machine is nearly 20 years old.

Lincoln Appliance NZ, April 2010