To remove a Samsung washing machine paddle (also known as a drum lifter or agitator fin), you typically need to disengage its locking mechanism, which often involves clips or tabs that slot into the drum. Based on the installation method shown in the reference where the paddle's lugs line up with holes and it goes into place with a nice click, removal is likely the reverse process of releasing these lugs from their corresponding holes.
Understanding Drum Paddle Attachment
Most washing machine drum paddles, including those in Samsung models, are designed to be user-replaceable. They are usually attached directly to the inside of the drum. Common attachment methods include:
- Clip-in/Slot-in: The paddle has flexible plastic tabs or lugs that slide into slots or holes in the drum and lock into place. The video reference specifically mentions lugs lining up with holes and a click, strongly suggesting this method.
- Screw Fixings: Some older models or specific designs may use one or more screws, often concealed beneath a small cover or cap on the paddle itself.
For Samsung washing machines, the clip-in method is very common.
Step-by-Step Removal Guide
Follow these steps carefully to remove the paddle:
- Safety First: Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before attempting any repairs or component removal.
- Locate the Paddle: Identify the paddle you need to remove inside the washing machine drum.
- Inspect the Paddle: Look closely along the edges and surface of the paddle where it meets the drum. Try to find any visible screws or potential clip points. If there are no screws, it is likely a clip-in design like the one implied in the reference video.
- Release the Clips/Lugs: For clip-in designs (most common):
- You may need a flathead screwdriver or a plastic pry tool.
- Insert the tool gently between the paddle and the drum edge, usually near the ends of the paddle.
- Carefully leverage the tool to release the plastic clips or lugs holding the paddle in place. You might need to slightly lift or push the paddle while doing this. Be gentle to avoid damaging the drum or the paddle (if you plan to reuse it).
- Work your way along the paddle, releasing each clip until the paddle becomes loose.
- Slide/Lift Out the Paddle: Once the clips are released, the paddle should slide out of the slots in the drum or lift away. The video shows lugs lining up with holes during installation, implying they slide in. Removal would involve sliding them back out once disengaged.
- Screw Fixings (If Applicable): If you found screws, unscrew them first using the appropriate screwdriver before attempting to lift the paddle away.
Useful Tools
- Flathead screwdriver
- Plastic pry tool (recommended to avoid scratching the drum)
| Tool Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Flathead Screwdriver | Releasing plastic clips, removing covers |
| Plastic Pry Tool | Safer alternative for releasing clips |
Remember to note the orientation of the paddle before removal, as the new one must be installed correctly.
This process focuses on releasing the mechanism that locks the paddle into the drum, similar to how the lugs clicking into holes secure it during installation as seen in the reference.
