Worn or Damaged Shaft Washer on Washing Machine – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
The shaft washer (often called a thrust washer or spacer) sits between the inner tub or hub and the central drive shaft. Its job is to provide a low-friction bearing surface and correct spacing so the tub spins freely without metal-on-metal contact. When that washer wears, cracks or is missing, the drum can rub on the shaft or hub, producing scraping/grinding noises, excessive vibration and accelerated wear on seals and bearings. If left unaddressed a damaged shaft washer can lead to more expensive failures — scored shafts, ruined tub hubs, torn seals and failed bearings that cause leaks and complete drum failure. Diagnosis typically requires removing the agitator/inner tub to inspect the washer, shaft, hub and seals; if you see metal shavings, thin or deformed washer material, or scoring on the shaft, the washer (and often the seal or bearing kit) should be replaced.
Common Symptoms
Grinding or scraping noises during agitation/spin, drum wobble or off-balance that doesn't correct, visible metal shavings or scoring around the shaft/hub, and possible leaks from the base of the tub.
Common Causes
- Normal wear from friction over years of use (thrust washer thins and fails)
- Corrosion or chemical attack (detergent or rust causing breakdown of the washer)
- Incorrect installation, missing spacer, or a seized/rough shaft that accelerates washer wear
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Confirm the faulty part before ordering: remove the agitator or inner tub hub and visually inspect the washer for thinning, cracking or missing material and check for metal shavings on the shaft; if the tub wobbles when turned by hand, the washer or bearing is likely bad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep using the washer if the shaft washer is worn?
It’s not recommended. Continuing to use the washer risks further damage — scored shafts, ruined hubs, torn seals and bearing failure. Fixing only the washer early usually costs much less than repairing bearings, the tub hub or replacing the entire inner tub.
Is replacing a shaft washer difficult and how much will it cost?
Difficulty: moderate. You usually need to remove the agitator and inner tub to access the washer and seal; that can require basic hand tools and sometimes a puller or spanner. Cost: the shaft washer itself is inexpensive ($5–$30), but if seals or bearings are damaged expect higher parts costs ($30–$150) and significant labor. If you’re not comfortable disassembling the tub, a technician is recommended.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.