Symptoms
- Drum won't turn or turns with heavy resistance when moved by hand
- Grinding felt when trying to rotate the drum
- Machine may hum without the drum moving during a cycle
- Problem may have started after washing an item with hardware
Likely causes
- CommonForeign object wedged between the drum and outer tubUnderwire, coins, or small toys can fall through drum holes and jam the rotation.
- PossibleWorn or seized tub bearingA failing bearing can create enough resistance to make the drum very hard to turn.
- PossibleBroken drive belt or pulley (top-load)Without the belt connecting properly, the drum can feel loose or resistant depending on the failure.
- PossibleSeized motor coupling or clutchThis part can wear unevenly and bind rather than simply slipping.
What to do
- Unplug the machine before attempting to move the drum by hand.
- Check inside the drum and, if accessible, the gap between the drum and tub for visible foreign objects.
- Try rotating the drum in both directions to see if resistance is consistent or only in one spot, which can indicate a lodged object.
- Listen for grinding when turning the drum, which suggests a bearing problem rather than a simple obstruction.
- Avoid forcing the drum, since this can worsen damage to a bearing or coupling.
- Have a technician inspect further if no obvious object is found, since bearing and coupling repairs typically require disassembly.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
Washer tub bearing kitSearch: “washing machine tub bearing kit”
Washer motor couplingSearch: “washing machine motor coupling”
When to call a pro
If no foreign object is found and the drum still resists turning, have an appliance technician check the bearing, coupling, and belt.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.