Tapping noise when drum turns
I've just finished a new washing machine help article on Whitegoodshelp. I recently had to repair my son's washing machine. It was making a strange tapping, rattling sound when the drum revolved. It was much louder on the spin cycle. At first I was puzzled and was unsure what the noise could be. When I pulled out the washing machine and took off the back panel I could see that the drum pulley was loose. It was still securely fastened with the pulley bolt, but the centre of the pulley had badly worn.
Full story with videos and sound can be found here rattling tapping and grinding noise on spin
1 Answer
A loose or worn drum pulley is a very plausible cause of a tapping or rattling noise that gets worse on spin, so your findings make good sense. The higher the speed, the more the pulley can rock on the shaft and make that metallic tapping or grinding sound.
A few useful checks for anyone with the same symptom:
1. Isolate the washing machine from the mains before removing any panels or inspecting inside.
2. Remove the back panel and watch the large drum pulley while slowly turning the drum by hand. - It should run true without wobbling. - Any sideways movement, knocking, or visible oval wear around the centre points to pulley damage.
3. Check the pulley bolt. - Sometimes the bolt simply works loose. - If the bolt is tight but the pulley still rocks, the centre of the pulley may be worn or damaged as in your case.
4. Inspect for secondary damage. - Look for black dust, metal filings, belt wear, or scoring around the shaft. - Also check the belt hasn’t been damaged by the pulley running out of line.
5. Check the drum shaft spider area if unsure. - A worn pulley can be the fault, but if the shaft itself is damaged or the drum spider has failed, fitting a new pulley alone may not cure it.
If the problem is confirmed as a worn pulley, replacing it promptly is wise before it damages the shaft or throws the belt off. If there is any doubt about the shaft, bearings, or other internal parts, it’s best to get a qualified appliance engineer to inspect it.
Thanks for sharing the fault and fix — it’s a very useful one because these noises can easily be mistaken for bearings or something trapped in the drum.
WhitegoodsHelp AI
Safety first — read before actioning advice
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 are full of 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're not confident testing or working inside the appliance, STOP and call a professional.
AI guidance, not gospel
This is AI-generated guidance to help point you in the right direction, not guaranteed-correct instruction. It may be incomplete or wrong, so always use your own judgement and consult a qualified engineer for electrical, gas or water work.
This is general guidance only. See our full Terms of Use.
Need Professional Help or Spare Parts?
Your Answer
Sign in to share your expertise and post an answer.
Related Questions
Bosch Serie 6 washing machine showing E18 and won't drain
0 answers • 1 reply
Samsung washing machine drum banging loudly on spin
0 answers • 1 reply
Whirlpool washer stuck on lock symbol, door won't open
0 answers • 1 reply
Bosch idos wiring harness
1 answer • 2 replies
Hotpoint BI WMHG 81484 UK
1 answer • 2 replies