Are my washer shocks bad?

[biverser]

I have an 8-year-old Whirlpool front-load washer and I am trying to figure out if the shocks are bad. I'm not sure what a "normal" spin looks like. I see some grease on the shock shafts, but I think that is supposed to be there since they are just dampeners.

Can anyone tell me what a bad shock looks like and how do you know for sure when they need to be replaced? What are the key signs to look for when inspecting the shocks?

 

[_teliaz]

Grease on the shafts is normal but if you're getting loud banging during spin, excessive vibration or the drum feels loose when pushed, the shocks may be worn. Check for fluid leaks, cracks or if the drum bounces too freely when pressed. Are you seeing uneven loads or movement during light cycles too or only during high speed spin?

 

[Hurrican3]

Can anyone tell me what a bad shock looks like and how do you know for sure when they need to be replaced? What are the key signs to look for when inspecting the shocks?

before you change the shock, try to run an empty spin cycle. If it still shakes violently when empty, then you have a component problem (shocks, bearings, counterweights). If it only shakes with a load, double-check your leveling, as an unlevel machine will quickly wear out even new shocks

 

[solo.shifter]

If the shocks are bad, you’ll usually see the tub bouncing more than it should during the spin cycle almost like it’s on a trampoline. Do a quick check to push down on the tub and let go; it should settle quickly without extra bouncing

 

[Rob jr_]

@biverser the main sign of a bad shock isn't usually grease leakage, it's wear. Check the plastic bushings/grommets on the ends where they connect to the frame and the tub. If the mounting holes are oval shaped or the plastic is cracked/flaky, they are definitely bad