How to replace the shock absorbers in your washing machine

Remove the top and rear panels to expose the chassis.

Pull out the detergent drawer and lay the washer on that side so the rim cannot crack.

Wedge a wooden block between tub and frame so the drum stays still while you work.

Count the three shocks and write down their colours because black, white and red denote different stiffness levels.

Unscrew the filter and take it out of the housing.

Undo the pump-mount screws, rotate the pump and slide it free of the bracket.

Release the two hose clamps and pull the hoses off the pump stubs.

Lift the pump clear so the left-hand shock absorber is accessible.

Press the shock downward to compress the rubber washers and lock it in place.

Use a 13 mm wrench to undo the lower nut while maintaining downward pressure.

Insert a screwdriver through the mount hole and clamp the knurled rod with water-pump pliers.

Undo the upper nut completely and let the joint release from the drum.

Slide the loose shock out of the cabinet once both ends are free.

Tilt the washer to the opposite side and repeat the removal process on the remaining shocks.

Fit the metal-reinforced rubber washer onto the new shock rod.

Place the second rubber washer on the drum side of the mount.

Push the lower eye into its bracket, insert the bolt and thread the nut finger-tight.

Seat the upper eye in the drum mount, add the washer and nut, then tighten both ends firmly while compressing the rubbers.

Reattach the pump, lining it up through the filter opening before securing the screws.

Slide the hoses onto the ports and close each spring clamp using pliers.

Remove and replace the other shocks using the same technique.

Lay the machine on its back and place a cloth under the detergent compartment to catch any water.

Remove the lower side shield to expose the two shock absorbers.

Undo the top and bottom nuts on one shock and lift it out of the mounts by hand.

Transfer the plastic bushing from the old unit to the new shock if the new part is supplied without it.

Install the new shock and tighten both nuts, then repeat for the second side.

Refit the side shield and any protective covers removed earlier.

Stand the washer upright and spin the drum by hand; it should stop quickly without bouncing.

Remove blocks and tools, reconnect the power and run a spin cycle to confirm quiet, stable operation.