Screwdriver set
Use it for: To remove the access panel, top, or front fasteners depending on your washer layout.
Shop screwdriver setsWasher suspension repair
How to Replace a Washer Shock Absorber Kit
If your washer tub bangs around, shifts hard during spin, or feels unstable even with a balanced load, replacing the washer shock absorber kit can restore control and reduce violent movement.
This repair is usually straightforward if you work slowly, unplug the washer, and support any panel or tub area you open up. The key is confirming the shocks are actually worn before you swap parts.
Before you start: Match the replacement part to your exact washer before ordering.
Safety first
- Unplug the washer before opening any panel.
- Wear gloves around sheet-metal cabinet edges.
- Support the tub area as needed so a shock is not removed under heavy tension.
- Do not force clips, pins, or panels if something is still attached or misaligned.
Tools you may need
Nut driver or socket set
Use it for: Many washer panels and shock mounts use hex-head screws or small bolts.
Shop nut drivers and sockets
Slip joint pliers
Use it for: Helpful for clips, retaining pins, and stubborn mounts.
Shop slip-joint pliers
Work gloves
Use it for: To protect your hands from sharp cabinet edges and pinch points.
Shop work gloves
Flashlight
Use it for: To see the lower tub area and confirm the new shocks are seated correctly.
Shop flashlightsAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Repair Riot may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Step-by-step fix
Step 1: Confirm the shock absorber kit is the right repair
- Run the washer empty into spin if it can do so safely and listen for hard banging, repeated cabinet thumping, or a tub that slams side to side.
- Open the lid or door with the washer off and press the tub down by hand if accessible. A tub that drops fast, rebounds harshly, or feels loose can point to worn shocks.
- Check for simpler causes first: an unlevel washer, shipping bolts still installed on a newer machine, or a badly unbalanced load.
- Look underneath or through the access area for leaking, broken, detached, or visibly weak shock absorbers.
If it works: You have signs of worn or damaged shocks and no simpler setup issue explains the movement.
If it doesn’t: If the washer only shakes with oversized or uneven loads, correct the loading habit and level the machine before replacing parts.
Stop if:
- The washer cabinet, tub support, or mounting points are cracked or badly bent.
- You find major oil leakage from the transmission area or other damage that goes beyond the shock kit.
- You cannot safely access the suspension area without moving a very heavy stacked unit.
Step 2: Unplug the washer and open the access area
- Unplug the power cord.
- Turn off the water supply if you need to pull the washer away from the wall for access.
- Move the washer carefully so you can reach the panel you need to remove.
- Take out the screws or fasteners for the lower front, rear, or main access panel and set them aside in order.
- Use a flashlight to locate the shock absorbers between the tub base and the washer frame.
If it works: The washer is safely disconnected and you can clearly see the shock absorber locations and mounts.
If it doesn’t: If you still cannot see the shocks, check another service panel or remove the top or front panel as needed for basic access.
Stop if:
- You see standing water near electrical parts or signs of active leaking that could make the repair unsafe.
- A panel will not come free because hidden fasteners or clips are still engaged and forcing it may break the cabinet.
Step 3: Remove the old shock absorber kit
- Take a photo of the shock locations and mounting direction before removing anything.
- Support the tub lightly by hand if needed so the mount is not under heavy tension.
- Remove one shock at a time by taking out its retaining pin, clip, or mounting fastener from the frame and tub ends.
- Compare each old shock to the new part as you go so you do not mix up orientation or hardware.
- Repeat until all shocks included in the kit are removed.
If it works: The old shocks are out and you know how the new ones need to sit in the washer.
If it doesn’t: If a mount is stuck, relieve tub pressure slightly and try again rather than prying hard on the frame.
Stop if:
- A shock mounting hole is wallowed out, cracked, or no longer holds hardware securely.
- The tub drops suddenly or cannot be supported safely while a shock is removed.
Step 4: Install the new shock absorber kit
- Match the new shocks to the old ones by length, end style, and mounting direction.
- Install the new shocks one at a time, attaching each end fully before moving to the next.
- Reinstall the original pins, clips, or fasteners unless the kit includes replacements meant for your washer.
- Make sure every shock is fully seated and clipped in place with no twist or partial engagement.
- Check that the tub now feels more controlled when you move it by hand.
If it works: The new shock absorber kit is installed evenly and all mounts are secure.
If it doesn’t: If the new part does not line up cleanly, stop and recheck fit before forcing the hardware.
Stop if:
- The replacement shocks do not match the original mounting style or length.
- Any retaining clip or fastener will not lock in place securely.
Step 5: Reassemble the washer and level it before testing
- Reinstall the access panel and tighten the fasteners snugly.
- Move the washer back into position without crushing the drain hose or water lines.
- Adjust the leveling feet if the washer rocks on the floor.
- Reconnect the water supply if you shut it off and plug the washer back in.
If it works: The washer is back together, stable on the floor, and ready for a controlled test.
If it doesn’t: If the washer still rocks, keep adjusting the feet until all four corners feel planted.
Stop if:
- A hose is kinked, leaking, or rubbing sharply against the cabinet after repositioning the washer.
Step 6: Test the repair with a real spin cycle
- Run a rinse and spin or similar short cycle with the drum empty first.
- Listen for smoother operation and watch for reduced tub slam, cabinet banging, and walking.
- Then wash a small balanced load and let it reach full spin.
- Check again that the washer stays planted and the tub movement looks controlled rather than violent.
If it works: The washer spins with noticeably less banging and the repair holds during normal use.
If it doesn’t: If the washer still shakes badly, recheck the shock mounts, leveling, and load balance. If those are correct, another suspension or support part may also be worn.
Stop if:
- The washer still slams violently, walks across the floor, or shows new structural movement after the shock replacement.
- You hear metal-on-metal impact or see the tub contacting the cabinet.
Replacement Parts
Find a washer shock absorber kit on Amazon
Match the replacement part to your exact washer before ordering.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Repair Riot may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Verify the repair
- The washer sits level and does not rock on the floor.
- All shock mounts are fully seated and secured.
- An empty spin cycle runs with less banging or side-to-side slam.
- A small balanced load completes spin without violent movement or walking.
FAQ
What does a washer shock absorber kit do?
It helps control tub movement during agitation and spin so the washer does not bounce, slam, or shake excessively.
Should I replace just one washer shock?
Usually no. If the washer uses multiple shocks, replacing the full kit helps keep tub support even from side to side.
Will new shocks fix every shaking washer?
No. Poor leveling, unbalanced loads, shipping bolts, worn suspension parts, or damaged tub supports can cause similar symptoms.
How do I know the new shock absorber kit fits?
Match it to your exact washer model and compare the mounting ends, length, and hardware style before installation.
Can I use the washer if one shock is broken?
It is better not to. A broken shock can let the tub move too violently and may damage the cabinet, mounts, or other suspension parts.