Whirlpool WFW9200SQ02: Question about Inner Drum Shaft & Bearing Surface

[Steve M]

My Whirlpool WFW9200SQ02 knocked during some spin speeds when a load was in the washer.  I found that the inner drum could be "rocked" at an angle relative to the outer tub and pivoting at the rear.  This I first tested by holding the outer tub while wiggling the inner drum.  After disassembling the two piece tub, I could confirm that the knocking was emanating from the shaft & bearing assembly.  There were no signs of contact between the inner drum and the outer tub.  I can see some motion between the races of the outer bearing when I rock the inner drum, but unfortunately I can't see what's happening at the inner drum-side bearing where the knock seems to be emanating.  The inner bearing does not appear to have a radial motion between its inner and outer race that could explain why the inner drum can rock so much and with such a distinct impact, so I'm wondering if the shaft diameter may have worn down and the knocking is actually the shaft banging around within the diameter of the bearing. The shaft seems to have an area with a rough surface that as far as I can tell is where the inner bearing rides.  That rough area is ~0.020" smaller diameter than the adjacent areas on the shaft.  The diameter of the shaft on either side of the rough area is ~0.005" larger than the diameter of the shaft over much if its length.  I plan to replace the bearings and seal, however I'm not sure if the spider/drum shaft is worn or if it's in spec.  I've attached a photo with some rough measurements using a dial caliper.  The absolute numbers may not have high accuracy, but the relative differences are within a couple of thousandths.  Does anyone know if this looks normal?  While I could just purchase a new drum/spider assembly, I've prefer to save the expense.  But if the condition of the shaft is marginal or not OK, it's not worth taking a chance given the labor involved in getting to it in the first place.

By the way, Jerrod, great how-to video for making this repair.  Thanks.

Best Regards,
Steve M.

[Jerrod Sessler]

Your welcome Steve!  Glad the videos are helpful.

So, the shaft looks to be deficient to me.  It looks like you have lost about .020 where the inner bearing sits.  That is going to put a lot of pressure on the bottom of the seal as it rotates and potentially allow water through the top of the seal.  When wet laundry hangs on the inside of the drum when it rotates, you will get some banging from the shaft actually moving up in that spot due to the spinning weight of the wet clothes in the drum.

You need a new shaft assembly OR you could try something that I would adventure into but only if you really understand what I am saying and are willing to take just a little risk...  I would weld 3 or more very small beads along the shaft where the bearing sits to partially fill the bearing area.  Then I would grind each one down so it was very close to the original level of the shaft.  Essentially filling the .020 space with little lines of weld material.  You only need 3 of them but putting 5 or so would allow for a more event settling of the bearing.

If many people read this then I will probably get jumped on for even suggesting it but it will work and it would be much better than leaving the shaft as is.  The bearing does not move where it sits on the shaft in that spot.  It only needs to be held well in one spot.  The key is getting it centered as much as possible in that spot.  If it were me, I would weld and grind the beads and then I would install the bearing with some silicone sealer under it so once it gets set in place, it has full support and will not spin on the shaft.

The other options is to purchase a new basket assembly which is the better option but also a $300 option.  I have a wire feed welder in my garage which would make this sort of fix relatively easy.

Regards,

Jerrod

[Steve M]

Hi Jerrod,

Thanks for the quick reply.  The explanation of your clever idea is clear and I think it's worth a shot if I can find a welder willing to bargain a bit.  I can use the new bearing to test fit the "reconditioned" area on the shaft.  I've just ordered a bearing and seal kit from your website.  I'll let you know how I make out, most likely in a week or two.

Best Regards,
Steve M (or Kxxxx as you'll see on the order)