awz412 motor wont run?

Some machines test the motor rotation on power up and if this is abnormal they simply abort the program. If machine has stopped mid cycle, try to drain it by advancing the program to spin, this will switch on the pump and empty out the water. Alternatively, drain machine by running the outlet pipe into a bucket at floor level or run the outlet pipe out of the back door if it'll reach. Power off, drag machine out onto the floor, remove the back cover and locate the motor. May help if the machine is tilted at an angle or laid on its side. Check out the carbon brushes in the motor. Theyre graphite blocks which transfer mains power to the copper segments of the motor -Theyre possibly worn down. They're quite cheap parts and easy to replace. The brushes are at the other end of the motor from the drive pulley. The holders are plastic or bakelite and are generally held in with screws or plastic clips. Also, look at the copper segments they run on to check for burning or pitting. If the segments are burnt or damaged you need a replacement motor or a replacement armature (motor part) if you can source one. Check the tacho coil for breakages in the connections. The tacho coil is a small generator coil on the end of the motor which provides a voltage proportional to the speed of the motor. This voltage is fed back to the speed control module to enable the machine to check the rotation, direction and speed of the motor. Check all wires and connectors generally for internal breakages - caused by movement of the wiring loom attached to the drum. Over a long period of time the wire strands inside the insulator break through metal fatigue. Although the outside of the wire appears ok the internal is open circuit. Pull on each individual wire - if theyre ok internally, they shouldnt stretch. The timer can cause problems of this type, check for burnt connections or of course it could be an internal break in the motor itself, which would require replacement of the motor. Could also be a fault with the motor control board or "module". Replacement with a known good unit only real test unfortunately. Exercise extreme caution in this area - full mains voltage present at serveral places on the board. Power off and disconnect machine when replacing any motor component.
Some machines are fitted with an induction motor - this type of motor doesnt have brushes. Its a much heavier and more reliable type of device, but needs a component called a start capacitor or sometimes a start relay to set it in motion. If the starter component is faulty the motor cant get the kick it needs to get going. Replace capacitor or start relay.

Repair and service your own washing machine. Go to www.2ndwave.co.uk/manual.html

dannyboy
March 2009