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Maytag

maytag troubles

DOdoug22
Asked over 6 years ago 5,449 views
0

Help!!!!!!

Has anyone changed the bearings and seal on a Maytag Bravos XL.

Model MVWB980BW0,they tell me I have to replace the whole tub with the bearings and seal already installed.

Any help would be appreciated.

Solution Summary

AI-generated from this discussion

This thread was marked as solved. Here's a summary of the problem and the fix, generated from the discussion below.

Maytag Bravos XL MVWB980BW0 bearing and seal query

The problem
The owner asked whether the bearings and seal can be changed on a Maytag Bravos XL washing machine, model MVWB980BW0, after being told the whole tub must be replaced with bearings and seal pre-installed.
Likely cause
No confirmed fault was reported. The discussion only suggests possible tub bearing wear if there is loud rumbling or grinding on spin, drum play when lifted, or water marks/rust from a failed seal.
What fixed it
The accepted reply says the manufacturer often supplies this type only as a complete outer tub assembly rather than separate official bearings. It advises confirming the fault first, checking the model parts breakdown, and seeing whether an aftermarket bearing and seal kit exists. Because this is described as a major strip-down and the shaft may also be worn, the exact repair was not confirmed. Further diagnosis should be carried out by a suitably qualified appliance engineer.
Checks to try
  • Listen for loud rumbling or grinding on spin
  • Check whether the inner drum has noticeable play when lifted by hand
  • Check underneath for water marks or rust from a failed seal
  • Check the parts breakdown for model MVWB980BW0

Safety: Isolate the appliance from the mains before inspecting internal parts.

Cause identifiedGenerated 8 Aug 2026 · AI summaries can make mistakes — read the full thread below.
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1 Answer

Accepted Answer
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WH
WhitegoodsHelp AIAI Assistant
Answered 2 months ago

Yes, on this type of machine the bearings are often not supplied by the manufacturer as a separate “official” service part, so they push you towards replacing the complete outer tub. That does not always mean the bearings and seal can’t be changed, but it usually means it’s a more involved repair and may need aftermarket parts and careful dismantling.

A few checks before going too far:

1. Confirm it really is the tub bearings If the machine has a loud rumbling/grinding on spin, and the inner drum has noticeable play when lifted by hand, worn bearings are very likely. Also check for water marks or rust underneath from a failed seal.

2. Check the parts breakdown Look up the exact model parts list for MVWB980BW0. If the outer tub is only listed as a complete assembly, that’s why you’ve been told to replace the whole tub.

3. See whether a bearing kit is available aftermarket Some sellers offer bearing and seal kits even when Maytag/Whirlpool only list the full tub. The main issue is whether the bearings are designed to be removed and pressed out without damaging the tub housing.

4. Consider the labour involved This is usually a major strip-down job: basket out, tub apart, old bearings driven/pressed out, seal replaced, shaft checked for wear. If the shaft is worn or corroded, new bearings may fail quickly.

5. Weigh up repair versus replacement If the full tub is very expensive, an independent engineer may still be able to fit bearings only, but not all will take it on.

Make sure the appliance is isolated from the mains before inspecting any internal parts. If you’re unsure, or if pressing bearings in/out is beyond your tools, it’s best handled by a qualified appliance engineer.

WhitegoodsHelp AI

WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant

This answer was generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not provided by an engineer or any other qualified person, may be inaccurate or incomplete, and is not professional or technical advice. Do not rely on it. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before carrying out any electrical, gas or water work. Use is entirely at your own risk. See our full Terms of Use.

SAFETY FIRST: READ BEFORE ACTING ON THIS GUIDANCE

  • Never work on a live appliance

    Always unplug it at the mains before going near it with any tools.

  • Never attempt gas work

    By law, gas appliances must only be worked on by a Gas Safe registered engineer. If your fault involves gas, stop and call a professional. Do not attempt it yourself.

  • Watch for sharp edges

    Outer panels are smooth, but internal parts have sharp machined edges. Wear protective gloves and arm sleeves.

  • Water appliances can leak

    Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any hoses.

  • Know your limits

    If you are not confident testing or working inside the appliance, stop and call a professional.

  • AI guidance, not guaranteed

    This response is generated automatically by the WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant. It is not professional or technical advice, may be incomplete or wrong, and must not be relied upon. Always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer before any electrical, gas or water work.

This is general information only and is not professional advice. The WhitegoodsHelp AI Assistant is not an engineer and is not qualified. See our full Terms of Use.

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