Washer Spider Arm Broken – Symptoms, Causes & Fix
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Understanding the Problem
The spider arm (also called the drum spider or spider bracket) is the three-armed metal support that connects the rear of the wash drum to the drive shaft. Over time, the aluminum alloy spider corrodes from the inside out — mostly caused by liquid detergent, fabric softener residue, and moisture trapped behind the drum. When it cracks or breaks completely, the drum becomes unstable, bangs around violently during spin, and can even damage the outer tub.
Common Symptoms
Loud banging or knocking noise during spin cycle. The drum wobbles or tilts noticeably. Metal scraping sounds coming from inside the washer. Clothes come out with dark gray or rust-colored marks. The washer vibrates excessively and may walk across the floor. In severe cases, the drum drops down and won't spin at all.
Step-by-Step Fix Summary
1. Unplug the washer and turn off water supply.\n2. Remove the top panel and front panel (or back panel on top-loaders) to access the drum.\n3. Inspect the spider arm where it connects to the back of the drum — look for cracks, corrosion holes, or broken arms.\n4. If the spider is cracked or an arm has snapped off, it must be replaced.\n5. Remove the drum assembly, unbolt the old spider, and install the new one.\n6. Reassemble and run a test spin cycle to confirm the drum is balanced and quiet.
Where to Buy Appliance Parts (Price Comparison)
OEM spider arms are typically cast aluminum alloy. Aftermarket stainless steel spider arms are available for some models and resist corrosion better. Compare options below to find the right fit for your washer model.
| Store Name | Price Range | Shipping | Restocking Fees | Overall Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PartsDiscount.com | Lower Cost Options Available | FREE Shipping | NO Restocking Fees | Best Value ★★★★★ |
| AppliancePartsPros | Higher Prices | Paid Shipping | Yes (Varies) | Good ★★★☆☆ |
| RepairClinic | Higher Prices | Paid Shipping | Yes | Good ★★★☆☆ |
| PartSelect | Moderate to High | Paid Shipping | Yes | Average ★★☆☆☆ |
PartsDiscount.com
AppliancePartsPros
RepairClinic
PartSelect
Prices, policies, and availability may vary by retailer and are subject to change.
Common Causes
- Corroded spider arm — the aluminum alloy breaks down over time from detergent residue and moisture trapped behind the drum
- Cracked or snapped spider arm from excessive vibration and imbalanced loads over years of use
- Weakened spider mounting bolts — corrosion can affect the bolt holes as well, causing the spider to work loose before fully breaking
- Detergent and fabric softener buildup accelerating corrosion — liquid products are worse than pods or powder for spider longevity
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
Pour a small amount of white vinegar into the drum and run a hot cleaning cycle once a month. This helps dissolve detergent and fabric softener buildup that accelerates spider corrosion. Also, leave the door ajar after each wash to let moisture escape — trapped dampness is the #1 accelerator of spider arm corrosion.
Watch to Confirm Your Issue
Brand-Specific Issues
Common problems reported by brand
Samsung
"Samsung washer spider arm cracked"Samsung front-load washers (especially WF series models made between 2010–2018) are particularly known for spider arm corrosion. The aluminum spider is exposed to moisture and detergent residue that collects behind the drum. Samsung part number DC97-16509A covers many of these models.
LG
"LG washer drum spider broken"LG front-loaders use a spider arm that can corrode over time, though LG's spider design is generally considered more durable than some competitors. The most common sign is a grinding or scraping sound during spin. LG part AJQ73993801 covers many models.
Whirlpool / Maytag
"Whirlpool washer tub support broken"Whirlpool and Maytag front-load washers use a similar spider arm design. Part W10253864 fits many Whirlpool, Maytag, and Kenmore models. These spiders tend to last 8–12 years before corrosion becomes a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a washer spider arm to break?
The most common cause is internal corrosion of the aluminum spider arm. Liquid detergent, fabric softener, and moisture get trapped between the drum and the spider, slowly eating through the metal. Over several years this weakens the arms until one or more crack or snap completely. Using too much detergent, always washing in cold water (which doesn't dissolve residue as well), and keeping the door closed between washes all accelerate the corrosion.
Can I still use my washer with a cracked spider arm?
It's not recommended. A cracked spider arm causes the drum to be unbalanced during spin, which puts extreme stress on the bearings, shock absorbers, and outer tub. Continuing to run the washer can cause a cascade of additional damage that turns a relatively simple spider replacement into a much more expensive repair. If you hear loud banging during spin, stop using the washer until the spider is replaced.
How much does it cost to replace a washer spider arm?
The spider arm part itself typically costs between $30 and $80 depending on your washer brand and model. If you hire a technician, labor usually adds $150–$250 because the drum has to be partially disassembled to access it. DIY replacement is possible for handy homeowners with basic tools, but it does require removing the drum assembly.
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