To remove transit bolts from a washing machine, you typically unscrew them from the back of the machine, often removing the bolt and its corresponding spacer together, and ensure all of them are removed before using the appliance. It is crucial to retain these bolts for future use.
What are Transit Bolts?
Transit bolts, also known as shipping bolts or packing bolts, are metal rods with plastic spacers or sleeves designed to keep the washing machine's drum stable and secure during transportation. They prevent the drum from moving excessively and potentially damaging internal components while the machine is being delivered.
Why Removal is Essential:
- Prevent Damage: Running a washing machine with transit bolts in place can severely damage the drum, bearings, and the machine's structure due to restricted movement during cycles.
- Proper Functioning: The drum needs to move freely during wash and spin cycles for the machine to operate correctly and efficiently.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Transit Bolts
Removing transit bolts is a straightforward process, usually performed before the first use of the washing machine.
- Locate the Bolts: Transit bolts are typically found at the back of the washing machine. There are usually between 3 and 5 bolts, often marked with distinct heads or colours, and sometimes located within plastic panels. Consult your washing machine's manual for the exact location and number.
- Gather Tools: You will likely need a spanner or wrench that fits the bolt heads. The size needed is usually specified in the user manual or can be determined by checking the bolt head. Some bolts might be hand-tightened and can be removed without tools.
- Remove the Bolts and Spacers:
- Using the appropriate tool (or your hand), turn the bolt counter-clockwise to loosen it.
- According to sources like instructional videos, continue turning "Until the bolt and spacer can be removed in one." This means you should be able to pull the bolt and the plastic spacer/sleeve out of the hole together.
- Repeat this process for each transit bolt.
- Ensure All Bolts Are Removed: It is critical to "Make sure you have removed all of the transit bolts." Double-check the back of the machine against the information in your manual to confirm no bolts are left.
- Insert Blanking Plugs: Most washing machines come with plastic blanking plugs to fill the holes left by the transit bolts. Push these plugs firmly into the holes to improve aesthetics and prevent dust or small objects from entering.
- Retain the Bolts: As advised in the reference, "Please retain these for future use in case you need to move the appliance." Store the bolts and spacers safely, perhaps taped together or in a bag, along with the user manual.
Importance of Retaining Transit Bolts
While it might seem unnecessary, keeping the transit bolts is important. If you ever need to move the washing machine again (e.g., to a new house or even just across a room), re-inserting the transit bolts will protect the drum during transit, preventing potential damage.
Summary of Steps:
| Step | Action | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Locate | Identify bolts on machine's rear. | Check manual for exact positions/number. |
| 2. Prepare | Gather needed tool (spanner/wrench). | Ensure it fits correctly. |
| 3. Remove | Unscrew bolts counter-clockwise. | Remove bolt and spacer together. |
| 4. Verify | Double-check all bolts are out. | Confirm number removed matches manual. |
| 5. Finish | Insert blanking plugs into the holes. | Push them in firmly. |
| 6. Store Safely | Keep bolts and spacers for future moves. | Store with manual or in a secure place. |
Removing the transit bolts is a vital step before operating your new washing machine. Skipping this step can lead to significant problems and invalidate your warranty.
