How To Replace Samsung Washer Suspension Rod DC97-18610F

Is your Samsung washer experiencing more turbulence than a rocket launch? If your laundry days are plagued by excessive shaking, it might be time to address those worn-out suspension rods. Fortunately, we’ve got a step-by-step guide and an easy-to-follow video below that will have your washing machine spinning smoothly again, without the noise and drama.

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Is your Samsung washer shaking like it’s trying to launch into orbit? That’s usually a sign that the suspension rods (part #DC97-18610F) are worn out or broken. These rods absorb shock during the spin cycle and keep your washer drum stable. The good news? Replacing them is a straightforward DIY job. I’ll walk you through how to remove the top panel, access the old rods, and install the new ones so your washer spins smoothly again.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Watch: How to replace Samsung suspension rod

What is the Suspension Rod?

First, let’s go over what exactly the suspension rod does inside your washer. This important part is what holds up and supports the inner tub that houses your clothes.

The tub needs to be suspended and stabilized in order to spin smoothly during the wash cycles. On Samsung washers, there are four suspension rods, one located at each corner of the tub.

These hard plastic or metal rods connect the outer tub to the cabinet frame using ball-and-socket joints. This allows the tub to move freely while controlling vibration.

Over time, these rods can become loose, bend, or even snap if something heavy gets stuck in the tub. Replacing a broken suspension rod is important for restoring quiet and balanced spinning.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Parts

Before we dig into the repair, let’s go over what you’ll need to complete this job. Having the right tools and replacement part(s) will make the process smoother.

Tools Required:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Needle nose pliers
• Gloves
• Safety goggles
• Tape (duct or masking)
• Support rod or pole

• Samsung suspension rod part #DC97-18610F

You’ll need to purchase the specific suspension rod made for your Samsung washer model. Check the owner’s manual or machine tag to find the right part number.

It’s a good idea to inspect all four rods and replace any that look worn or damaged. Having backup rods on hand can prevent issues down the road.

Safety First!

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.

Removing the Top Panel

With our supplies gathered and safety gear on, it’s time to start the repair by removing the top panel. This gives us access to the suspension rods mounted underneath.

Follow these steps carefully:

1. Unplug the washing machine – Disconnect the power cord from the outlet.
2. Turn off water lines – Shut off the hot and cold water supply valves.
3. Detach fill hoses – At the back of the machine, unscrew the water fill hoses using pliers. Label the hot and cold hoses if they’re not marked.
4. Remove top panel screws – Use a Phillips screwdriver to take out the screws along the back and sides of the top panel.
5. Lift off panel – Lift up evenly on both sides, tilting the panel backward to release the front tabs. Remove completely.
6. Remove lid screws – With the top panel off, you can access the screws connecting the lid. Remove them with a screwdriver.
7. Tape lid support – Use masking or duct tape to hold the lid partially open, preventing it from slamming down.
8. Lift lid carefully – The lid will be loose, so lift it slowly. Have someone assist you. Watch for pinch points!
9. Support top – Once lifted, immediately place a sturdy support rod underneath to hold the top in place.

With the top safely supported, you can now access the suspension rods. Be very careful not to bump or shift the top when working underneath it. Safety first!

Replacing the Suspension Rod

Now we’re ready for the key step – replacing the faulty suspension rod:

1. Locate bad rod – Check the four rods and determine which one needs replacing. Look for cracks, rust, or broken pieces.
2. Loosen rod – Wearing gloves, lift up the rod where it connects to the tub to dislodge it.
3. Remove rod – Once free from the tub, carefully maneuver the rod out through the open top space.
4. Install new rod – Holding the new replacement rod, guide the bottom end down into the slot on the tub.
5. Secure rod – Push down firmly while lifting up on the top ball joint until the rod clicks and locks in place.
6. Check rods – Examine the remaining rods closely. Replace any others that are damaged or worn.

Take your time removing and installing each rod. Having someone assist can make this easier. The key is getting each rod firmly seated in the correct position.

Reassembling the Washer

Once the replacement rod(s) are securely installed, we can reassemble the washing machine:

1. Remove support – Slowly take out the support rod or pole propping up the top.
2. Lower top – With assistance, slowly lower the washing machine top back down into the closed position. Go slowly!
3. Replace screws – Use the Phillips screwdriver to reinstall all of the screws along the back and sides of the top panel.
4. Close lid – Lift the washing machine lid back into the closed position and remove the tape.
5. Replace lid screws – Reinstall the screws to securely connect the lid again.
6. Install top panel – Set the top panel back in place, lining up the tabs and screw holes.
7. Reconnect hoses – Screw the water fill hoses back onto the proper hot and cold supply lines.
8. Tighten hoses – Use pliers to tighten each hose connection and prevent leaks.
9. Restore power – Plug the washing machine power cord back into the grounded outlet.
10. Turn on water – Slowly turn on the hot and cold water supply valves.

Double-check that all screws are tightened, the top panel is secure, and no water leaks are present.

Testing and Final Steps

We’re almost done! Just a few final steps to ensure your Samsung washer is functioning properly:

1. Do a test run – With no clothes inside, run a short test cycle on the highest spin setting. Watch and listen for problems.
2. Check for leaks – Closely inspect the fill hoses, tub gasket, and base for any water leaks during the test. Tighten if needed.
3. Verify rod repair – The washer tub should spin quietly and vibration should be minimal if the rod was replaced correctly.
4. Add load – Run a full wash cycle with a typical load of laundry. Make sure it operates as expected.
5. Enjoy quiet performance – With the faulty suspension rod replaced, your Samsung washer should run nice and quiet once again!

Taking the time to properly test and verify the repair ensures you completed the job right. Now just clean up tools, dry out the tub, and start that mountain of laundry.

More tips

Thank you for reading! We hope you found this information useful to get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our thousands of free videos and troubleshooting guides available. If you need replacement parts or some extra help, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, order parts, read our DIY blog and more.

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