Indesit Washer Drum Does Not Turn

[Curious]

My indesit washer will go thru cycles etc but the drum does not turn. I have checked the belt but appears ok. Drum will turn freely so not jammed . . . could it be the motor? - machine is about 7 years old. . . .is it time for a new one?

[Whitegoodshelp (Andy)]

The motors for these washing machines are ridiculously expensive compared with the cost of the new Indesit washing machines, but it could be just the carbon brushes worn out, which is worth fixing. If you take them off the motor you can see if they are worn.

If they are faulty, then at least one of them will be charred and blackened (as opposed to shiny) at the tip where it runs against the commutator of the armature.

Another common cause for the motor not working on old Indesit washing machines is the speed control module which is a printed circuit board (in a plastic housing) on the inside panel near the motor. You can take it off and look for burned out tracks (particularly where the connector at the bottom fits) or dry joints.

Related links:

Washing machine won't spin or drum won't go round (general troubleshooting advice)

Hotpoint and Creda carbon brushes diagnostics & fitting (This page is about Hotpoint / Creda carbon brushes but the principle of what to look out for to decide if the brushes need replacing is the same)

[Curious]

Thanks - it was indeed the module - there were various scorch marks - took it to a local dealer who soldered the board up - (cahrged a fiver) and hey presto the washer works again. . . once again thanks for your help.

[Whitegoodshelp (Andy)]

The newer Indesit washing machines have an anomaly. If the motor becomes open circuit, the entire washing machine becomes dead. The lights come on but nothing works. This is the same symptom as a faulty door interlock and other faults, but it's worth mentioning because it is totally illogical for a washing machine to not fill or pump if the motor is faulty.