I have a Hotpoint First edition 800 washing machine and recently I've been finding shreds of dark grey plastic inside the drum and in the washing.It also makes a loud knocking noise on a full spin but is fine when doing all other operations.When The drum is turned manualy it is fine and makes no noise.I've had the top and back off but cannot see any problems,all the springs are fine etc.I've checked all around and inside the drum and can't find a problem and the plastic doesn't match anything I can see or have lost.Any help would be great.

Bristol Paul., September 2010

It won't spin at all now and the water doen't drain away...Time for a new one I think.

Bristol Paul, September 2010

Thanks for that but the plastic I'm finding is very hard and dark grey whilst the seal seems to be light grey and soft.?

Bristol Paul., September 2010

Hiya Paul, The bit of plastic you are referring to is more likely the SEAL around the washing machine. The seal is the part that goes around the door to prevent any water leaking on the floor. It is possible that the seal if it was not fixed properly could be splitting and thus being ripped apart when in operation. You can get and fix replacement seals yourself but be advised to buy long screwdrivers to replace the seal as the screws are often underneath ;or in stupid positions. Therefore using a long scredriver (Posidrive /flat) is often used) Also be careful if your replacing the seal as it is not as easy trying to place the metal ring round the seal either. You need to be sure that the seal is tight along with the securing band (metal ring) and as a tip for you, put the metal ring where you can tighten it up ;or loosen next time. NEVER PUT UNDER MACHINE !

Anthony Tovey, September 2010