Diagnosis
The combination of a loud grinding noise and a burning plastic smell during the high-speed spin cycle is a classic symptom of a failed spider arm (the three-pronged support bracket that holds the inner drum). When the spider arm corrodes or cracks, the inner drum loses its center of gravity and begins to wobble or "drop." This causes the stainless steel drum to rub violently against the plastic outer tub or the door seal, creating friction that melts the plastic and produces the burning odor.
How to Fix It
This is a comprehensive mechanical failure that requires a full teardown of the machine.
- Immediate Action: Unplug the washer and stop using it immediately to prevent the drum from tearing through the outer tub.
- Disassembly: Remove the top panel, front bezel, and the outer tub assembly.
- Component Replacement: Replace the spider arm assembly (Part #DD97-00657A). Because the spider arm is welded to the inner drum, you must replace the entire inner tub assembly.
- Seal Inspection: Check the rear tub seal for leaks; if the seal failed first, it allowed water to corrode the spider arm.
- Reassembly: Reinstall the tub assembly, ensuring the drive pulley is seated correctly and the tub is leveled before tightening the mounting bolts.
If That Didn't Work
If the grinding noise persists after replacing the drum, the rear tub bearing (Part #DC97-15413A) has likely seized or worn down. While the spider arm causes the wobble, a failed bearing causes a high-pitched metallic scream. If you find metal shavings in the tub during the spider arm replacement, you must replace the bearing and seal kit simultaneously to avoid a repeat failure.
Heads Up
Do not attempt to "patch" the spider arm with epoxy or welds. The centrifugal force of a spin cycle is too great; a failed patch can cause the drum to detach entirely, which will catastrophically destroy the outer tub and potentially cause electrical shorts.