LG WASHER OE ERROR DRAIN PUMP AND DRUM GASKET REPAIR

[dave53]

My LG WM2032HW front loading washer was throwing an OE error code and failing to spin.  I found quite helpful instructions for the WM2487HWMA.  See http://fixitnow.com/wp/2011/02/11/accessing-and-removing-the-drain-pump-in-an-lg-front-load-washer/  However, accessing the drain pump for the LG WM2032HW required a slightly different disassembly process.  There are no screws on the back to release the top.  The top doesn't slide--it lifts up by wedging up the front from two spring clips on either side.  Make sure you secure the top once lifted or it will surely hit you on the head later during the repair.

I ordered a drain pump from Sears.  I also ordered the door boot/gasket (see below). 

Once the top is up and the front panel is off (see link on how to remove the gasket and door latch from the front panel) you can access the pump assembly.   The drain pump is secured by three screws. These screws cannot be accessed easily from the side.  The side panel is welded to the frame.  The screws for the drain pump are readily accessible by removing the three screws around the filter cleanout.  One of the three will already have been removed by having removed the drain cover.  

The whole pump assembly then lifts up and can turn enough to access the three screws holding the drain pump to the pump assembly. You will need to remove the red and black electrical connectors from the drain pump.  You may find it helpful to remove the rubber intake drain hose from the back of the pump assembly and/or the drain hose from the top of the assembly.  

Replacing the drain pump did the trick.  I had no sand or obstruction in the pump or the pump assembly.  It just gave out.  My LG is OE free and leak free.

Since you must for this repair remove the front door, thus having removed the door spring wire from the boot/gasket, you might check for holes in the boot/gasket.  Mine had several holes in it.  The washer would at times leak during small loads.   You will need to remove the inner spring/wire.  The inner spring wire is easier to reinstall on the new boot.  You will find it much easier if you also remove the weights, top and bottom from the drum.  The outer spring wire connected to the door takes some effort.  Position it in the groove as much as you can leaving one side of the spring in its final position.  With vice grips pull hard to the right while a third hand (helper) positions the wire in the rest of the groove.  Be patient.  This takes some effort and trial and error.

hanks all for the related posts.