[TailSpin]

Yup, sounds about right. I am not looking for a new one. Initially looked at Miele, but they are just too expensive and cost of repairs is prohibitive. It seems their modern versions don’t quite have the same legendary robustness that their older machines are known for. AEG seem to be a good quality alternative brand, a bit more expensive, but apparently better quality than your average Hotpoint, Hoover, Whirlpool etc. Any other brand recommendations?

UPDATE: Have now ordered an AEG model L7FEC946U. They will take away the old one when they deliver it so I guess the matter can now be considered closed.

[TailSpin]

Hmm, bad news is that the spider arm is not available separately and I have to buy a complete drum assembly, which costs 203GBP + VAT. That’s at least half the cost of a new machine…

[TailSpin]

Dave, I don’t feel any slack but having had another look this morning there does appear to be both back-front and up-down movement of about 3mm. I see the steel rim of the inner drum rising a little above the edge of the rubber and then dipping level and perhaps slightly below with it, as well as moving away and then towards it. That tends to suggest that the inner drum is slightly off-centre.

[TailSpin]

Dave, there is indeed a concrete weight at the front bottom. There doesn’t appear to be any give, but I would have to tip the washer over and have a look through the bottom to be sure. Unfortunately I am not in enough of a fit state to be able to do that at the moment. I am still recovering from sciatica and even pulling the thing out to access the back and top was something of a effort and a bit of a risk.

I also tried to check the drum to see whether it is out of true and it looks like it might be slightly. I observe that the bottom seems to move in and out a little (perhaps 2-3mm) when comparing to the position of the rubber skirt. I can see how vigorous rubbing and shaking might eventually rip the rubber.

The bad news is that I have so far been unable to find a spider arm part for this model. Will have another look tomorrow though and maybe contact Hotpoint via chat.

[TailSpin]

Ok, Dave, will take the back off and check that one as well.

Wouldn’t a cracked spider leg result in some play in the drum?
I ask because I don’t really feel any, but only one way to tell for sure…

[TailSpin]

I hadn’t, but just did. There is just one large piece of concrete on the top of the drum and it is firmly attached, so the noise is not being caused by a loose concrete. Was a good point though.

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