Front-load washer and dryer pair in a home laundry room

Generic photo: Curtis Adams · Pexels License

Field pattern: stacked washer and dryer shake or walk in spin (shipping bolts, stacking kit and leveling before bearings or shocks)

On stacks the usual causes are installation: shipping bolts left in, a stacking kit missing, loose or for the wrong models, feet not level or not locked, or a weak floor. The wrong turn is replacing shocks, springs or bearings on a machine that was never installed correctly.

Cross-checked ~45 min easyBrands: All

Before you start

Lifting the dryer off the washer is a two-person job
Unplug both units before working at the back
Do not run the washer with the dryer stacked but unsecured

Diagnostic steps

Unlock all 6 steps with expected values

Full library + AI assistant + the OnCall Tech app for iPhone & Android. $34.90, one time.

Get lifetime access

OnCall Tech is a reference tool for trained technicians and can make mistakes. Always disconnect power and confirm with the manufacturer's documentation before you work.

More washers guides

Guide · Washer

Replacing a front-load washer door boot (bellows seal)

The door boot is held by an outer clamp at the cabinet front and an inner clamp on the tub. Remove the front panel on most models, release both clamps, align the new boot with the tub mark and reinstall the inner clamp first.

8 steps ~75 minmoderate

Guide · Washer

How to test a washer water inlet valve (screens, coils, pressure)

Rule out supply first, clean the hose screens, then test each solenoid coil with power off. Coil resistance varies by brand; an open or near-zero reading is the clear failure.

7 steps ~30 mineasy

Guide · Washer

Front-load washer shock absorbers (dampers): test and replace

Front-loaders hang the tub on springs and dampers underneath. A worn damper lets the tub bounce. Test by pressing the tub down; replace dampers in pairs.

7 steps ~60 minmoderate