Zanussi Aquacycle 1100 – odd fault

[willd9999]

Hi,

A friend has the above machine (an FLE1115W) which apparently washes as usual, and runs through the wash cycle perfectly, until the final spin. The machine spins fine, and as soon as the motor begins to run down, the waste pump stops and the water fill solenoid opens, and the machine fills with water. Once it is full to its normal level, the solenoid closes, the waste pump comes on and the machine empties again. Once empty, the machine goes through the anti-crease agitation cycle, then stops.

I used to own one of these machines, and when the drum spider failed I stripped the machine for parts, as I had another machine for my own use. So I have effectively a complete working set of electrical components to hand.

It seemed an odd fault, and although I’m aware that there are unusual switching practices carried out within the machine controls, the most likely point of failure appeared to me to be the main control board.

I swapped the boards, but the problem remained. I then removed the back of the machine and had a reasonable look for chafed wires and loose connections, but nothing was apparent.

Having no further insight, I proceeded to swap components over one at a time, running the machine with the back part removed, and the drive belt removed. There was no change until I changed the smaller pressure switch, at which point the machine worked properly for several cycles, so I reassemmbled the machine and ran it again, and the fault was back.

The only things I hadn’t changed by now was the suppressor, the solenoid assembly, the front control panel, the main motor and the waste pump. I changed the front control panel, and still the fault is apparent.

Anyone have any theories? I can’t put my hands on a wiring diagram at present, so I’m a little stuck…

Many thanks to all who have persevered all the way to the end!

Will.

[Seamy]

Re: Zanussi Aquacycle 1100 – odd fault

Wiring diagrams can’t be passed on to the general public (see forum rules), try testing the components with a megger for earth leakage. Test heater, n.t.c if fitted & motor firstly, check pressure vessel isn’t blocked with gunge.
Maybe button sticking in on fascia panel is causing it to start as soon as its finished, just a thought.

[willd9999]

Re: Zanussi Aquacycle 1100 – odd fault

Hi Seamy, thanks for your reply.

Although I registered on the public forum, I have been repairing domestic and commercial appliances as part of my work for twenty-odd years, and so have some expertise in the area.

Subsequent to my first post, I swapped the front control panel, then substituted both the main motor and the drain pump.

Selecting just the spin cycle results with the same fault, every time, at the end of its cycle – however, running through a full wash cycle does not cause the fault, and the washing comes out as dry as one would expect.

I’ve put this on the “too difficult pile” now, as it makes no sense to me, and at least it’s in a somewhat workable state. The owners are moving house shortly, so as long as it holds together until then, they are happy.

Glad it wasn’t a paying customer – at least I know if I come across a similar fault again, that the best course of action is to run away!

Regards,

Will.

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