Hello,

My Maytag Neptune frontloader has a problem. The barrel that spins seems to be sagging downin the front which causes the plastic around the front edge of thebarrel to rub against the plastic that surrounds the area aroundthere. This rubbing causes a very loud noise during the fast spincycle toward the end of the load. It sounds like a jet engine and isonly getting worse. You can see that the barrels plastic edge isbeing worn into and some areas have holes in it where the plastic hasworn through the other plastic. There are also plastic shavings thatare in the washer after a load of wash. So my question is, what iscausing the barrel to lean forward and rub against the plastic liningin the front? Is there some type of shock that supports the barrel ora belt that holds it up? I read a lot of other posts in forums onthis that say the load noise is a bearing that needs to be replaced.However, in this case I know the loud noise is coming from the twoplastics rubbing together If a bearing would fix this I don’t seehow a bearing would balance out the barrel from leaning forward andrubbing. I think it would be a shock or spring or something thatholds the barrel level and so it wont rub. Any suggestions? How muchwould it cost for a repair man to come fix this? Is is worth fixingor should I just get a new washer? I don’t know which route totake.

Thanks,

Tyler

Thank you for the quick responce. This was very helpful. I had seen a lot of posts online complaining about the loud noise on this particular model, yet very few seemed to narrow it down to the plastic rubbing in the front as the source of the noise. As far as the source of the problem, the general consensus has been some type of bearing.

I am concidering purchasing a used washing machine from one of the shops here in Salt Lake. I feel like I can save a lot of money if I find a slightly used machine of a good brand. Can Magacian59 or any others recommend what brands to stay away from or some of the more reliable brands? That would also be helpful. I have heard lots of bad things abou LG, Samsung and Maytag(more recent Maytag.)

Regards,
Tyler

I would consider repairing the Neptune.

I would first determine how much damage there is to the balance ring, door panel, etc. If minimal, you can replace the bearings and seal for about $80 if you're handy with tools or you can rent a special tool kit that includes a DVD that shows you how to replace the bearings. See Neptune Bearing for more information if you decide to repair.

It is best to not run the machine when it sounds like a jet taking off so the bearings don't fall apart which requires you to cut the bearing's outer race with a dremel or sawzall then knock it out. But it can be done.

At least your machine does not have the faulty door latch wax motor... Just the Neptune's with the timer knob are affected.

I hope this helps.