What causes tub bearings to fail?

Tub bearings typically fail due to wear over time, exposure to moisture if the seal degrades, or unbalanced loads causing undue stress. Once water reaches the bearings, corrosion and friction quickly lead to failure.

Can I replace just the seal instead of the entire kit?

While technically possible, it is strongly recommended to replace both the bearings and the seal together. A failing seal often leads to bearing damage, and new bearings require a robust seal for long term performance and to prevent future leaks.

How do I know if the tub bearings are the problem?

Common signs include loud noises such as grinding or squealing during the spin cycle, excessive vibration, or if the inner tub feels loose and wobbles when moved by hand. A leak from the rear of the tub can also indicate a seal failure that has damaged the bearings.

Washing Machine Tub Bearing Kit Replacement Guide

Appliance Aid takes part in the Amazon Associates programme. Some links on this page are affiliate links, and a qualifying purchase earns us a commission. Your price is unchanged.

🏆 RECOMMENDED PART

Front Load Washer Tub Bearings and Seal Kit Fit for LG & Kenmore Etc Replacement Part 4036ER2004A 4280FR4048L 4280FR4048E 4036ER4001B

REPLACEMENT PART: Washing Tub Seal (4036ER2004A), Tub Seal Gasket (4036ER4001B), Large Bearing (4280FR4048L), Small Bearing (4280FR4048E) fit for Kenmore / Sears, LG. Quiets an extremely noisy washer.
HIGH QUALITY: External fluororubber and internal steel plate tub seal, Silicone rubber tub seal gasket, High quality steel bearings with double rubber seal, pre-lubricated/greased from the manufacturer, low friction c...
POSSIBLE PROBLEM REPAIRING: Help to repair Noisy, Leaking, Shakes and Moves. Hard job to do but saves a lot of money and your washer will rotate smoothly again.
WARM PROMPT: Cut off the Power Supply when installing to prevent accidents. If you don't know the bearing size you need, and your model is not listed in the product description below, it will NOT work on your front lo...

Check Price on Amazon

What the 4036ER2004A does

The tub bearing kit allows the inner wash tub to spin smoothly and quietly during cycles. The included seal prevents water from reaching and damaging the bearings.

Symptoms when this part fails

Loud grinding or squealing noise during spin cycle
Washer vibrates excessively
Inner tub feels loose when pushed by hand
Water leaking from the rear of the tub
Clothes not spinning dry due to poor tub rotation

Compatibility

Fits the LG family. Specifically:

Any unit originally equipped with OEM part number(s): 4036ER2004A.
Check the model/rating plate inside your appliance and compare it against the fitment table on the product listing before ordering — this guide does not list specific compatible models because Amazon does not provide verified fitment data through this pipeline.

Tools you'll need

Socket set
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Hammer
Bearing puller/installer (optional)

Difficulty: Advanced · Time: 3-5 hours

How to install the 4036ER2004A, step by step

Disconnect washing machine from power and water supply.
Remove the top panel, control panel, and dispenser drawer.
Disconnect and remove the front panel, door boot, and inner tub components.
Access and remove the outer tub assembly from the washer frame.
Extract the old bearings and seal from the outer tub housing.
Clean the bearing housing, then carefully install the new bearings and seal.
Reassemble the washing machine in reverse order.
Reconnect power and water, then test for proper function and leaks.