How to Fix a Tub for a Washer That is Leaking

The outer tub of the washer keeps water inside the drum during the wash cycle. If this drum is cracked or damaged in any way, then water will splash out from your washer during the wash cycle. This is a common problem that occurs due to regular wear and tear.

This repair guide will give you step-by-step instructions on how to determine if the cause of your washer leaking is a damaged outer tub. If the drum is damaged, then you will need to replace it. We will show you how to install a new tub and restore your washer to full working condition.

What is a Washer Tub?

Your washing machine contains two tubs: one is the inner drum where you place your clothes for washing, and the other is the outer tub that spins around the washer and allows water in and out. The outer tub prevents water from leaking into the rest of the machine or onto your floor. If your washer is leaking, you will need to investigate the outer drum as a potential cause of the problem. The outer tub is typically made of hard plastic; however, some may be made of metal. As a result, the outer tub is vulnerable to cracking or rusting.

Where Is the Tub Located?

The tub is located inside the washing machine.

General Location of the Tub in a Top Load Washer

General Location of the Tub in a Front Load Washer

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Tub in a Top Load Washing Machine

1. Begin by unplugging the washer and pulling it forward to access the back of the washer.
2. You will need to remove the control panel. Depending on your model, you may need to remove either the screws or the spring clips that secure the control panel in place.
3. Slide the control panel forward, then tilt it backward to access the underside.
4. Disconnect the lid switch.
5. Remove or raise the top from the machine to access the drum. On some models the entire cabinet is removed by tilting it forward and lifting it off the washer to access the drum.
6. Inspect the drum for any signs of cracks or damage. If these are present, you will need to replace the outer drum.

How to Install a New Tub in a Top Load Washing Machine

1. Follow the steps in “How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Tub in a Top-Load Washer” to access the tub.
2. With the top of your washer already removed, pull off the fabric dispenser cap to access the inside of the agitator.
3. Remove the agitator out of the machine. There may be a mounting bolt holding it in place.
4. Remove the tub/spanner nut. You will need a spanner wrench and a hammer to loosen it.
5. Remove the tub cover by slowly pulling off each locking tab holding the cover to the tub.
6. Lift the inner tub/basket from the washer and set it aside.
7. Remove the drive block from the shaft and disconnect the water pressure air hose from the tub.
8. Remove the suspension spring under and around the drum using a pair of pliers.
9. Remove the brackets that secure the tub in place, then pull the outer tub out of the machine and discard it.
10. Take the new outer drum, then place the tub seal inside it and position it in the washer.
11. Reinstall the brackets to secure the drum and fit the suspension spring back in place.
12. Replace the drive block on the shaft, then reconnect the water pressure air hose and secure it with the clamp.
13. Place the inner tub back in the machine and place the tub nut back in. Use the hammer and spanner again to tighten it.
14. Reinstall the tub cover and carefully fit the locking tabs back on, one by one.
15. Reinstall the agitator and the fabric dispenser cap.
16. Fit and secure your console back onto the main top and your repair is complete.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Tub in a Front Load Washing Machine

1. To prevent electrical hazards, unplug your washing machine.
2. Disconnect the water supply hose, then remove the top of the washer and set it aside.
3. Remove the detergent housing by pressing on the locking tab at the back and pulling it out.
4. Detach the control panel from the top of the washer.
5. Remove the spring clamp that runs around the door boot, then peel the door boot off the front panel and tuck it inside the machine.
6. Remove the front panel off the washer. You may need to unplug the door lock wire harness.
7. Disconnect all hoses attached to the drum.
8. Remove the top and bottom weights off the washer.
9. Remove the connector nozzles from the door boot (if your model has these) and peel the door boot completely from the washer.
10. If your model has a heater, disconnect the wire harness that goes to the heater and remove the heater.
11. Remove the two front shocks.
12. Carefully remove one by one the clips that hold the front of the tub to the back of the tub. Note where they are connected, then pull the front tub forward and off the machine.
13. Inspect it for any damage or cracks. If there is damage present, the tub will need to be replaced.

How to Install a New Tub in a Front Load Washing Machine

1. Follow the steps in “How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Tub in a Front-Load Washer” to access the tub.
2. Take your new tub and line it up on the machine, then secure it on the machine with the locking tabs and clips.
3. Replace the two front shocks and connect the wire harness for the heater.
4. Place the top and bottom weights back on the machine.
5. Fit the door boot back onto the front of the machine and secure it with the spring clamp.
6. Reconnect the connector nozzles to the door boot.
7. Reattach all the hoses to the drum.
8. Place the front panel back on the machine and plug the door lock wire harness back in.
9. Install the dispenser housing back in the machine and fit the console/control panel back on.
10. Reconnect the water supply hoses, and your repair is complete.

Next: Troubleshooting the Detergent Dispenser

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