Shock Damper

Shock Damper

Kurt from NJ

GE front loading washer was shaking and making banging noises.

Adjustable or 7/8" open end wrench, pliers, flat screw driver.

Through research determined the most likely problem was worn shock dampers or suspension springs. Watching videos, and reading comments determined this was a relatively easy installation. Removing necessary panels for access was easy. Unfortunately the only video available for my machine only showed replacing the left front damper and the left rear damper leading one to believe they were all as easy. This was not the case. Both front and rear right dampers were in tight spots making proper positioning of the wrench for removal and installation of the damper end that connects to the wash basket extremely difficult. The right rear damper was the most difficult, not so much in removing the worn one because I wasn't overly concerned with damaging it, but in installing the new one. What I found helpful for installing the new damper in the right rear of the machine was applying a light coating of vaseline to where the damper connects to the wash basket as well as to the damper end that connects to the basket. Disconnecting and connecting the damper ends that attach to the washer cabinet with the plastic pin provided is relatively easy in all locations, though in all locations a coating of vaseline helps with inserting the new pins. One important note: While the instructions that come with the part indicate you should turn the damper counterclockwise when installing it to the basket, I believe it should be CLOCKWISE as the LOCKING TABS on the damper that engage with the holes in the basket mounting point have a slight upward angle on the right side of them as you look at them head on. That's there, I believe, to allow them to more easily engage with the basket mounting point as you turn the damper 90 degrees to fully engage basket mount point.