Speed Queen Washing Machine: rubbing noise

Professional Repair Guide

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.

Urgency: Medium

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

Easy 2–5 minutes
  1. Pause machine mid-cycle
  2. Rearrange garments to distribute weight evenly
  3. Restart and observe for noise reduction
⚠️ Safety First: Do not open lid/door mid‑spin without stopping machine

Check for foreign objects in drum and pump

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: flashlight, possibly screwdriver to open pump access
  1. Unplug washer
  2. Inspect drum interior for loose items
  3. Check drain pump filter or access panel for trapped objects
  4. Remove any debris and test run
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before accessing internal areas

Professional Repairs

Replace tub/drum bearings and seals

Estimated Cost: $200–$500+ (parts + labor)

Replace suspension/shock absorbers

Estimated Cost: $100–$250

Replace drive belt/pulley/actuator

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after load redistribution and object removal
Noise occurs regardless of load and sounds like metal‑on‑metal grind
Drum resistance when turned manually indicating bearing failure
Visible leaks or wobbling beyond simple balance issues

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?
Common causes include worn tub bearings, loose suspension, or worn drive components.
How do I fix Speed Queen Washing Machine rubbing noise myself?
Try redistributing the load or checking for foreign objects in the drum and pump.
How much does it cost to fix rubbing noise?
Professional repair costs range from $100 to $500+, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for rubbing noise?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue, or if the noise persists, it's time to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Installers forgot to remove the shipping bracket from inside...

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.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!