WASHER MACHINE REPAIR

So I walk in to my laundry room and instantly my socks are wet. I look down and see water everywhere. I turn off the washer, start cleaning up the mess, and start looking. I took the front cover off of the washer and turned the machine on and watched. I spotted a hole in the tubright above where the water drains from the tub in to the pump. The hole looked like an exit hole from a .22cal round. I started looking on the internet for other people who had this problem and how to fix it.

Step 1:

I noted that some people are using epoxy to repair holes in the liner. I work at a body shop and have access to some very strong epoxies.  I’m sure any epoxy that is waterproof will work.  I used my Leatherman and trimmed the plastic that was sticking out of the hole.

Step 2:

There is not much room to work under the drum,  and while I was cutting I bumped into the hose that connected the tub to the pump.  It made a very distinct clanking noise.  I knew it was money but couldn’t tell how much. I thought it was just a few coins. I took the line loose and found to my surprise $5.10 in change, a few earrings, 2 trim nails and pole tag from 2008.

Step 3:

I then grabbed some 80 grit and sanded the area for proper adhesion.  Then I spread the epoxy over the hole in the washer tub. I let this dry for 24 hours and then put it all back together.  This repair didn’t cost me anything to do, the epoxy and even the sand paper was on the floor of the shop I work in. My best guess would be no more than $10.00, which is  far cheaper than a new washer. Thanks.

Comments

[ironsmiter]

You've been washing your bullets again, haven't you.
How many times do I need to tell you, you clean the GUN not the bullets.
Silly.

Looks like a great fix.

I worry though that over time, the plastic will flex, and the patch may crack and pop off. As a backup-backup plan, get a leakfrog, or some other form of leak detection.

[ivan_stephens]

Thank you for the comment.

I will try to remember to remove all bullets, guns, knives, hand grenades, and landmines next wash. Sometimes I forget to empty my pockets.

The epoxy I used is what we use in the body shop to glue panels back on a vehicle. It’s just as strong as welding. Even if it leaks in a year or so, I can patch it again. The washer was the first major appliance my wife and I bought when we got married 10 years ago. It might be time for a new one by then.