Speed Queen Washing Machine: rubbing noise
What is this symptom?
If your Speed Queen Washing Machine is producing a rubbing or grinding noise during cycles, this may indicate mechanical contact within the drum or drive components. This issue often arises during agitation or spin cycles and can signal wear in the tub bearings, suspension, or drive components. It's essential to address this promptly to prevent further damage.
Important Tips for Speed Queen Models
- Speed Queen washers are known for durable construction but worn bearings are a frequently d cause of noise requiring bearing/tub replacements
- Some models use suspension rods rather than shock absorbers; both should be inspected if tub movement is excessive
Possible Causes
Worn or failed tub/drum bearings
How to Identify: Grinding/rubbing noise during spin, noise persists regardless of load balance, drum resistance when turned by hand
Part: tub bearings (inner drum bearings)
Loose or worn suspension/shock absorbers
How to Identify: Thumping or rubbing noise accompanied by excessive movement of tub/frame
Part: suspension rods/shock absorbers
Worn drive components (belt/pulley/shift actuator)
How to Identify: Rubbing or squealing noise when motor runs, especially during agitation; visible wear on belt/pulley
Part: drive belt, drive pulley, shift actuator
DIY Solutions
Redistribute and balance load
- Pause machine mid-cycle
- Rearrange garments to distribute weight evenly
- Restart and observe for noise reduction
Check for foreign objects in drum and pump
- Unplug washer
- Inspect drum interior for loose items
- Check drain pump filter or access panel for trapped objects
- Remove any debris and test run
Next step
Choose the next step for rubbing noise
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Drum Bearing Kit
Supports the spinning drum and ensures smooth, quiet rotation during cycles.
- Typical part-only price
- $40 - $95
- DIY difficulty
- Hard
- Estimated time
- 120-180 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Washer Shock Absorber
Dampens tub movement and vibration during high-speed spin cycles.
Washer Suspension Rod Kit
Supports and stabilizes the washer tub during agitation and spin.
Drive Belt
Transfers rotational power from the motor to turn the drum or tub.
Model-compatible Washing Machine parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets
Routine tub-cleaning supplies for residue and odor control. They do not repair a mechanical, drainage, or electronic fault.
Braided Washer Inlet Hoses
A maintenance replacement option for visibly worn external fill hoses. Verify thread size, length, and hot/cold connection requirements.
Washer Drain Hose Holder
Helps secure an external drain hose at the standpipe. It does not correct an internal pump or control fault.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace tub/drum bearings and seals
Replace suspension/shock absorbers
Replace drive belt/pulley/actuator
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Level the washing machine using adjustable feet: Unbalanced load noise and uneven wear
Frequency: monthly -
Check drum interior and drain pump filter for debris: Noise from foreign objects and pump issues
Frequency: monthly
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Speed Queen Washing Machine rubbing noise?
How do I fix Speed Queen Washing Machine rubbing noise myself?
How much does it cost to fix rubbing noise?
When should I call a technician for rubbing noise?
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Worn or damaged drum bearings
- Loose or damaged drive belt
- Foreign object caught in the drum or pump
User Suggested Solutions
-
Inspect and replace worn or damaged drum bearings. Disconnect the power, remove the outer casing, and check the bearings for wear. If they are damaged, replace them with new ones.
-
Check and replace the drive belt. Ensure the machine is unplugged, remove the access panel, and inspect the belt for wear or looseness. Replace if necessary.
-
Remove any foreign objects from the drum or pump. Inspect the drum and drain pump for any items that may have been left in pockets or caught in the mechanism.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
rubbing/banging noise from the back of the machine
Shipping bracket was removed and machine tested with a full load, no issues found.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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