How To Replace a Washing Machine Rear Tub Seal (With Video!)


APP Expert / Friday July 8, 2022


Has your laundry room turned into a mini pool? A leaky washer could be the culprit, caused by a failed rear tub seal that’s ready for retirement. Don’t panic though—our step-by-step guide, complete with a helpful how-to video just below, will show you how to replace the rear tub seal yourself, saving you time and costly repair fees. Let’s get to fixing!

Need a replacement read tub seal for your washer? Search below using your specific washing machine model number to identify the exact part needed:

Notice water leaking out the back of your washer tub? It may be a sign that your rear tub seal has failed and needs to be replaced.  Fortunately, changing out a rear tub seal is a straightforward repair that you can complete on your own within an hour or so. Simply use this guide below from our experts at Appliance Parts Pros.com to change out your rear tub seal and get your machine up and running in no time. Let’s fix it!

Ready to repair your laundry machine? Shop for any washer parts you require on Appliance Parts Pros.com.

How to buy the correct washing machine part

As you repair your washing machine, you may need to buy a replacement part. To get the right one for your model, you can simply go to Appliance Parts Pros.com and:

  • Type in your model number into the search bar.
  • Find your part on the easy-to-read diagram.
  • Match it to the numbered parts listed below.
  • Click on the item for photos and a repair video.
  • Click “Add to Cart,” purchase the item and receive it within 1-2 business days!

Alternatively, you can also go straight to our washer parts section and browse items as needed. Simply use the filters on the left-hand side to narrow down your options.

What you’ll need to change out the Samsung rear tub seal

Time: 15 minutes or less (plus 30 minutes to disassemble and 30 minutes to reassemble your washer)

Parts

Tools

  • Wood block
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Hammer
  • Work gloves

How to change out the Samsung rear tub seal

Warning: Unplug your laundry machine and turn off the hot and cold water supply

It’s important to stay safe as you work on your laundry machine. Before getting started, be sure there’s no risk of electrocution or water leaks by unplugging your laundry machine and turning off the water supply. 

Want to follow a video guide to repairing your washing machine? Check out our how-to video for changing out your Samsung rear tub seal from our experts at AppliancePartsPros.com.

1. Open your rear tub seal kit

You’ll need a new rear tub seal in order to complete this repair. Typically, you have to change out your rear tub seal if it’s failed and water is leaking from the back of your washer tub.

2. Fully disassemble your washer

The rear tub seal is located in the back half of the outer tub, which means you’ll have to fully disassemble your washer in order to reach this part. Keep in mind that this process takes about 30 minutes or so to complete.

Depending on your machine’s model, you can either:

Once you’ve fully disassembled your machine, you’re ready to get started on this rear tub seal repair!

3. Locate and remove the old rear tub seal

Now that your machine has been taken apart, you can get access to the rear tub seal.  The seal is simply pressed into this recess, as pictured above. To leverage it out, take a large flathead screwdriver and get underneath it.  From here, you can pry it up and remove it from the tub. Just be careful as you go around the seal so that you don’t damage the lip of the tub.

4. Check the bearings and groove

Before we put the new rear tub seal in, take a moment to look at the bearings in the middle. If you’re changing the seal because they were leaking, you’ll want to make sure that they’re not bad. Use your finger to make sure that they spin freely and aren’t jammed up. In addition, be sure to clean the groove out. You don’t want any dirt or foreign objects in there that could cause it to leak.

5. Install the new rear tub seal

Now it’s time to put in the new rear tub seal. Remember that the seal comes pre-greased from the manufacturer, so you shouldn’t have to add anything to it. To put it in, set it down nice and square over the opening. Now push it down into place. You’ll only be able to push it so far, but make sure it goes down evenly.

Once you’ve got the seal started, you can use a hammer and a piece of wood to tap it down. Set down the wood, nice and even. Tap around the seal at different entry points so that it sets down evenly.

Once it’s tapped all the way down, make sure it’s even with the lip of the tub. Once you’ve done this, it’s time to put your washer back together!

6. Before reassembly, check the spider and shaft for corrosion

As a final check before you reassemble your washer, make sure that the spider arm isn’t corroded or weak. If it is, you may want to change it out.

In addition, check the surface of the shaft and make sure it’s smooth. If your seal was leaking for a while, it could be corroded (as that’s where the seal actually sits). If it’s corroded, you should also change it out.

7. Fully reassemble your washer

Congrats, you’ve now changed out the rear tub seal! Next, you can follow the instructions for fully reassembling your washer. This process takes approximately 30 minutes.

Depending on your machine’s model, you can either:

Safety tip: check your fill hoses regularly

Fill hoses can cause significant water leaks, flooding your home with up to 500 gallons per hour! For this reason, you should take special care to inspect them 1-2 times a year. Examine the entire hose for signs of bulging or leaks, as well as for corroded fittings.  You should also check the washers and screens within the head of the hose and clean them out if needed.  If the hose is rusted or damaged, you should replace it ASAP. For extra leak protection, you might also consider purchasing a braided stainless steel fill hose.

Keep your washer in order with Appliance Parts Pros.com

Nice work, you’ve now successfully replaced your rear tub seal! Keep in mind that you should maintain your washing machine regularly in order to keep it in good working order. A few key tasks you should complete include checking the fill hoses, running a “Clean Washer” cycle and wiping the machine down for any mildew.

And remember: if you need any other washer parts, you can get whatever you require on Appliance Parts Pros.com!

Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to contact or call us at 877-477-7278. We’re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!

Since 1999, AppliancePartsPros.com has helped millions of people repair their broken appliances by providing high-quality original parts at well below retail prices, free support and troubleshooting, and award-winning customer service from an expert, friendly, US-based customer support team!

Tub seal FAQs

How do I know if I need to replace my rear tub seal?

You may need to replace your rear tub seal if you notice water leaking out the back of the tub. You can troubleshoot washer leaks with our guide in order to be sure this is the reason behind it. Once you’ve disassembled your washer to replace the tub seal, you’ll also be able to see that it’s worn down and/or corroded.

Are tub seals different for top load and front load washing machines?

While tub seals function similarly for top load and front load washers, they’re typically located in different areas. For a front load washer (like our guide above), the tub seal is located inside the outer tub at the rear. In contrast, top load washers tend to have a seal located at the bottom of the tub. No matter what model you have, you can get a replacement tub seal on Appliance Parts Pros.com!

A group of home appliances sitting on a wood floor
laundry detergent, baking soda, vinegar, and lemon on table; laundry cleaning chemical guide