my hotpoint washing machine WMA50 is making a dreadful noise when it spins?

It is more than likely the main bearings. The easiest way to test is turn the drum by hand (without any clothes in) if it feels lumpy as you turn it then it is the bearings. The WMA range of machine were made with two size bearings. A 30mm and a 35mm depending on the spin speed of the machine,so if you do decide to replace them remove the old bearings first and take them to the shop so you get the correct replacment. If you fit the wrong size bearing you would need to replace the drum support and the pulley. However if the drum spins easy and there is no sound as you manualy spin it, it could be one of the balance weights come loose.

workman1
May 2008