Do You Have to Remove Transit Bolts from Washing Machines?

Today, we’re exploring transit bolts. Tumble dryers and washing machines have transit bolts installed in the factory, but what are they? And do you need to remove transit bolts from a washing machine before using it?

For many of us, our parents ingrained in us that transit bolts have got to be removed. Otherwise, really bad stuff can happen. Is this true, or is it just an old wives’ tale? Well, let’s find out, shall we?

 

Do You Have to Remove Transit Bolts?

Yes, the transit bolts in a washing machine must be removed before using it. Failing to remove the transit bolts before use voids the warranty on your washing machine and may damage it.

Don’t worry; it’s really easy to remove the bolts, but extremely important that you ensure all are removed before you install your washing machine.

 

What Are Transit Bolts?

Transit bolts are put in at the factory, and they hold the drum in a fixed position throughout the transporting process.

They ensure the drum doesn’t spin or move up or down during travel. This prevents any damage from occurring before the washing machine gets to your door.

The bolts are located in the back of the washing machine. They go through the back panel and into threaded holes in the back of the drum mechanism. This keeps the drum nice and rigid during transit.

It’s a good idea to keep hold of the transit bolts for your washing machine if you are planning on moving homes soon.

However, if you don’t have transit bolts for your appliance, it isn’t the end of the world. Your washing machine has likely travelled thousands of miles from the factory to your front door.

A short trip from your old home to your new home likely won’t damage a washing machine without transit bolts installed.

 

What Happens If You Don’t Remove Transit Bolts?

As transit bolts hold the drum of your washing machine in a fixed position, you can imagine that turning your washing machine on and running a washing cycle with these bolts installed isn’t a good idea.

As we said above, not removing the transit bolts from your washing machine can void the warranty of the machine. If you do use the washing machine with the bolts installed, there is a very high chance of serious damage being done.

The washing machine will try to run a cycle, but the drum won’t move. The motor will continue to try and spin the drum with nothing happening.

This can burn out the motor, break the drive belt, bend or damage the drum, or even cause an electrical fault.

Even running a washing cycle for a short period can damage a washing machine beyond repair. So, it is best to remove the transit bolts the moment your washing machine arrives.

 

How to Remove Transit Bolts from a Washing Machine

Thankfully, removing transit bolts from a washing machine couldn’t be simpler.

You’ll need access to the back of the washing machine. There are usually four transit bolts (two about 20 cm down from the top of the washing machine and two slightly further down on the edges of the back panel).

Some washing machine manufacturers use highly visible coloured spacers to help you locate the bolts.

To remove the bolts, you need a spanner or a socket correctly sized for the bolt head.

Run the spanner or socket in an anti-clockwise direction until all of the bolts are removed. The spacer can also be removed at this time too.

As we said above, it’s a good idea to keep these bolts handy in case you’d like to move the washing machine in the future. Now you can proceed with installing the washing machine.

If someone else is installing your washing machine for you, it is best to double-check that they have removed the transit bolts before using the machine.

Double-checking this ensures that no damage will occur to your washing machine when you first use it and will give you peace of mind.

We hope this look at removing transit bolts from your washing machine has been helpful. Removing the bolts is nice and simple, but you must make sure that they are removed before you use the washing machine.

We have loads of other washing machine articles detailing common questions just like this one.

We also have lists of the best washing machines and various other kitchen appliances on In The Wash too. So, make sure you explore our website further before you leave.