Servis Washing Machine M330

[cfam]

I have a Servis Washing Machine GEM 1000 Automatic (Model No M330 Serial No(?) 960702713).
Last week the machine stopped performing (‘:cry:’). During the main wash cycle the drum does not rotate; during the spin cycle the drum starts to rotate then stops (‘:?’). The water drains out fine, the water fill appears fine, the interlock appears to work (leastwise I have to wait a couple of minutes before I can open the door). Not sure about the heating as it uses a hot and cold water supplies, though I do hear what sounds like water being heated. Now the machine is about ten years old and I have been contemplating buying new one but I have not yet got to the stage of researching what is available on the market thus the repair of the existing machine would help (‘:)’).

I have obtained from the library the Haynes manual on Washing Machines (by Graham Dixon). Based on what I have read, it looks like the machine uses an induction motor which, according to Dixon, are difficult to repair and are best replaced. (Leastwise, I cannot see anything that looks like brushes to armature of a DC motor.) There are reference details stamped on the body of the motor,and I think the SN is TIPO M51 40 04 04. The belt does not appear to be a problem as the drum will turn when I rotate the motor’s drive shaft, so I assume there is sufficient tension; and, based on the notes elsewhere on this (‘8)’) website, it is the least likely cause. (Incidentally Dixon’s book mentions this website.) Dixon seems to suggest that the only serviceable parts are the magnets and the tacho coils.

However, I am not certain that I am any wiser to the cause of the problem 😕 and whether it is a straightforward repair. So before I resort to a service engineer :o, I seek diagnosis of the problem at hand and an estimated cost 8O. Then I can balance the cost of repair versus the cost of new machine. (All in all the machine does look in remarkably good condition despite its age – no sign of rust and no sign of excessive wear.)

Whilst I am here, my thoughts on a replacement were gearing toward a washer/dryer, although having read some postings (and comments from my sister-in-law) is this a wise choice. I don’t use a dryer at present but it would be handy for use during the winter period. What are the thoughts of the professionals – separates or combined.

Regards CFAM

[Penguin45]

Re: Servis Washing Machine M330

19 out of 20, THIS little devil is the culprit. Used to drop like flies when the machines were popular.

Might be worth checking it for dry joints, but at that price, it’s definitely worth a punt.

Power off if you plan to do this yourself.

Penguin45.

[cfam]

Re: Servis Washing Machine M330

Hello Penguin 45,

Thank you for your prompt response and your advice. I apologise for the delay in my reply this was due to a water leak from the mains tap occurring after I removed the washing machine from its cubby hole.

I powered off the machine – that is removed the plug from its mains socket! I have spent this weekend inspecting the printed circuit board with a magnifying glass and noted a couple of cracked (dry) solder joints and one area of the board with a brownish mark. I used a multimeter to check for burnt out components but none was indicated. I resoldered the cracked joints but this has not solved the problem. So I have now placed an order for the “little devil.” I feel that this is the wiser course of action given the component’s price, the time spent so far and the mountain of washing that is now accumulating. I shall report back the result once the new circuit board is installed.

Thank you for your advice and assistance.

Incidentally, I did note the review of the Servis Washing Machines, which noted the poor history of the goods from this supplier. Perhaps mine has bucked the general trend because it is been used only for light washing two or three times a week for the past ten years. I shall peruse the remainder of the reviews, which appear to be an engineer’s perspective, to inform my choice for a new washing machine.

Regards,

CFAM

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