Bearings and Seal for Kenmore Elite HE3t

[MK]

I need to replace the bearings and seal in my Kenmore Elite HE3t front
loading washing machine. The model number is 110.44932200. Do you
stock these parts for my model? Thank you.
-MK

[Jerrod]

That model is not on the list that we have but that does not mean that
our new HE3 kit will not work for it. What I need if for you to take
the machine apart and send me a photo and some sizes for the seal that
you take out. With that, I can make sure you get the correct kit.

Thanks,
Jerrod

[M Linkous]

Hello! Hope everyone is well and staying safe. We also have the Kenmore Elite Model# 110.44932 200, made in Germany. The shocks are bad, and we think the bearings need to be replaced as well. Do you have or know the correct bearings and seal for this model? Also, we are having trouble removing the drive pulley, and will need to use a pulley puller tool. Do you know if this model is any different than similar models as far as the drive pulley is concerned? Any help is appreciated! Thanks!

[Jerrod Sessler]

This is the pry bar that I like to use to get the pulley off.  A little tug, a little turn, a little tug and before you know it, it is in your hand!  https://www.harborfreight.com/pry-bar-set-3-pc-68339.html?cid=paid_google|||68339&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAwMP9BRCzARIsAPWTJ_Gx470hecmDZYRDVR0UfqvUbiE23Pl4gLA05Nw39uMTMk-dCsQqK4caAs3pEALw_wcB

As for the repair kit for that model, if you look at this page:  https://www.yellowvanhandyman.com/washerrepair.aspx

You may order a repair kit for any front load washer model.  We will match it up with one of our kits. Yours happens to be our 8153 repair kit.

Regards,

Jerrod

[M Linkous]

Thank you! :-)

[M Linkous]

Our stainless steel drum is out! The spider is pretty corroded, but not as bad as some I’ve seen. Do you think that it is worth replacing the bearings and seal with a corroded spider? I called Sears, and they said that while the drum is under a lifetime warranty, they no longer make that part, and that I would have to pay for a Sears tech come out to confirm that it is defective, and they would then order a third party replacement part, if they can get one, under the warranty. Your expert opinion would be greatly appreciated! 

[Washer Repair]

That is hogwash.... They do not have to force you to have a tech out if you have it all apart.  You can show them photos of your parts and they are required to send them to you.

The problem right off the bat with your rotating assembly is the base of the shaft if worn where the inner bearing rides.  See the attached photo that I marked up to show.  This cannot get smaller as it does as it will not support the bearing properly.

Jerrod

[M Linkous]

Thank you, Jerrod. The base of the shaft is definitely worn down and gets smaller. I will try again with Sears to see if they will replace the tub/drum. I agree with you that they should not force me to pay a tech to confirm the defective part. Will let you know how it goes!

My husband is a painting contractor, so lots of laundry, and our Kenmore has been a powerhouse, which is why I want to try and fix it. In the event that they do not issue a replacement tub and we cannot fix, I have been looking at possible new washer options. I've read to stay away from LG and Samsung, and  that Kenmore and some Whirlpool were being made by LG. Miele has a lower priced model (still $) but the capacity is small, and I've read mixed reviews about Speed Queen. Any  thoughts or recommendations, as you work on them?

[Jerrod Sessler]

If my space and situation allowed, I would buy a top load washer and be done with the front loads.  They are all junk in my view.

I designed a new seal that would provide longer life for these machines and I tried to help the Samsung design team but they were not interested in my input.

I may explore presenting it to other manufacturers as someone may be interested.  The fact is that they are also hoping the machines fail in ~5 years because that is long enough for them to not have to take responsibility but short enough that you are forced to purchase another one.  I mention that because that would be the reason why they would not want to use my seal design to increase the life because they would not sell new machines.

Jerrod

[M Linkous]

Planned obsolesce time frames seem to be getting shorter, don’t they? Glad to hear that you designed a better seal. Maybe you should start making reliable artisan washing machines! :-)

I’d have to remove the table we built to get a top loader to work. Will consider if we have to replace. Researching new washers is overwhelming, but it can be done!

Thanks so much for all of your help. Will keep you posted.