Maytag Washer Smells Like Burning Rubber During... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The washer's MCU controls the motor speed via a motor control board. High spin speeds place significant stress on mechanical components like the drive belt, tub bearings, and motor. Increased friction from worn or damaged parts generates heat, leading to the burning rubber smell. The motor windings can also overheat if the motor is struggling to turn the drum due to excessive load or internal faults. The control board uses sensors to monitor motor speed and current; unusual readings *should* throw an error, but some failures occur before a fault code appears.

Symptoms:

US homeowner observes a burning rubber smell emanating from their Maytag washer specifically during the high-speed spin cycle. No fault codes are displayed.

Possible Causes:

Worn or damaged drive belt
Motor pulley friction
Tub seal failure and bearing friction
Foreign object lodged in the pump or between the tubs
Motor windings overheating

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the washer at the breaker panel (Lock Out/Tag Out - LOTO).
2

Remove the washer's cabinet (usually held by screws at the rear or under the top panel) using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the drive belt for cracks, fraying, or glazing. Replace if necessary.
4

Check the motor pulley and tub pulley for any obstructions or signs of wear. Clean or replace as needed.
5

Examine the tub seal for leaks. If leaking, the bearings are likely damaged, requiring tub/bearing assembly replacement. Look for play in the inner tub.
6

Inspect the drain pump for obstructions. A jammed object can cause excessive friction and heat. Remove the pump and check for foreign objects.
7

If no mechanical issues are found, suspect a motor issue. Measure the motor winding resistance using a multimeter (refer to the tech sheet for specs). If resistance is out of range or windings are shorted to ground, replace the motor.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Verify power is off with a non-contact voltage tester. Capacitors within the appliance can store high voltage even after power is disconnected; discharge them properly before working on the electronic components (refer to service manual).

Prevention:

Avoid overloading the washer. Regularly inspect and clean the drain pump filter. Use the correct type and amount of detergent. Inspect the drive belt annually for wear.

Expert Tip:

Run the washer in diagnostic mode (usually involves pressing a specific sequence of buttons - consult the service manual) to observe motor behavior and sensor readings during the spin cycle. This can help pinpoint intermittent issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct drive belt tension?

Drive belt tension should allow approximately 1/2 inch of deflection when pressed midway between the motor and tub pulleys.

•How do I properly discharge a capacitor?

Using an insulated screwdriver with a well-insulated handle, short the terminals of the capacitor. Be extremely careful and avoid touching any metal parts of the screwdriver during this process.

•Where can I find the tech sheet or service manual for my specific Maytag washer model?

The tech sheet is often located inside the washer cabinet, usually taped to the side or back panel. You can also search online using the washer's model number followed by 'service manual' or 'tech sheet'.

Maytag Washer Smells Like Burning Rubber During High-Speed Spin: Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What is the correct drive belt tension?

•How do I properly discharge a capacitor?

•Where can I find the tech sheet or service manual for my specific Maytag washer model?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: