Kenmore 417.43142200 front-loading washer thumping

[Kenmore88]

My Kenmore 417.43142200 front-loading washing machine started thumping fiercely during the spin cycle. I checked for balanced load and that the machine is level.

From searches here and the web, it appears the possible causes are 1. blocked sump 2. dead shock absorbers 3. worn out bearings.

I'm thinking I could possibly fix the first two myself, but if the bearings are shot, I'll probably get a new machine (I don't have the time or space to do that repair, and I'm guessing it wouldn't be cost-effective to bring in a repairman).

When I removed the front plate, I noticed a large spring near the sump. The spring was not attached to anything.

1. Is this spring supposed to be attached to anything, and if so, what?

2. How to I check the sump for blockage? (i.e., which clamps do I remove?)

Thanks!

Bob

[Kenmore88]

One more thing: a repairman I spoke with said that if the shock absorbers are shot, it's not worth repairing, as these machines are designed to last only about 15 years.

Agree or disagree?

[Kenmore88]

There's the spring.

Also: I removed the hose clip directly behind the grey housing. There was a little water, but no blockage in the hose or the housing, as far as I could tell. But I don't know if this is the right place to look.

[sh2sh2]

Take the top off, it looks like your one tub spring is broken or disconnected

[Kenmore88]

6 hours ago, sh2sh2 said:

Take the top off, it looks like your one tub spring is broken or disconnected

Thanks sh2sh2!

When I removed the top, I noticed that one of the screws securing the spring retaining strap was missing. (I wonder if it worked its way loose, or if it was a manufacturing error.) No wonder the spring got disconnected.

Off to the hardware store to see if I can find a matching screw.

Spring seems to be OK. A neighbor helped lift the drum while I reconnected the spring. 

Before I did this, I tried and failed reconnecting the hose to the back of the pump (not sure if that's inlet or outlet). Any tips? It's difficult to open the clip with pliers while maneuvering the hose around the outlet in such a confined space.  (I realize, of course, that in hindsight there was no need to disconnect it in the first place.)

For other newbies, here's a video on the suspension spring. 

Thanks again!

[Kenmore88]

Found a comparable screw at the hardware store.

Hose reconnection turned out to not be a problem. With the tub hung properly, there was enough clearance around the hoses to get in there with both hands.

Ran a spin cycle with the tub empty - no problem. Now running a small test load.