Buy Washing Machine Transit Bolts

Guide to Buying Washing Machine Transit Bolts: What You Need to Know

When you buy a new washing machine, it's essential to ensure its safe transportation. One of the most crucial components for this process is the transit bolts. These small but important parts protect your machine from damage during shipping. Whether you’re moving your washing machine to a new home or replacing Transit Bolts that were lost or damaged, this guide will explain everything you need to know about buying washing machine transit bolts.

What Are Washing Machine Transit Bolts?

Transit bolts are long screws designed to secure the internal drum of a washing machine during transport. They prevent the drum from moving around inside the washing machine and damaging other components. Most washing machines come with transit bolts when purchased new, but they need to be removed before use.

If you're planning to move your washing machine or you’ve lost your original bolts, it’s critical to buy replacement bolts that fit your machine properly.

Why Are Transit Bolts Important?

Without transit bolts, the drum in your washing machine is free to move. While this is fine during normal operation, the drum can cause severe damage during transit if not secured. The machine might experience internal damage, which can lead to costly repairs or even make the washer unusable.

Here’s why transit bolts are essential:

Prevents Internal Damage: Secures the drum and prevents it from hitting other parts of the machine.

Maintains Machine Integrity: Helps keep all internal components in place, ensuring the washing machine arrives at its destination without issues.

Cost-Effective: Buying transit bolts is much cheaper than repairing or replacing a damaged washing machine.

How to Identify the Right Transit Bolts for Your Washing Machine

When buying transit bolts, it's important to ensure they are compatible with your specific model. Here’s what you should look for:

Washing Machine Brand and Model: Each washing machine model has different requirements for transit bolts. Check your washing machine’s manual or look up the model number online to find the exact size and type of bolts you need.

Original or Replacement: Many manufacturers offer original transit bolts as replacement parts. Alternatively, third-party transit bolts are available, but you must ensure they are compatible with your machine model.

Length and Thread Type: The length and threading of transit bolts are critical. Using bolts that are too short, too long, or have incompatible threading can fail to protect the machine properly.

Material: Most transit bolts are made of metal or heavy-duty plastic. Metal bolts are durable and offer better protection during long-distance transport.

Where to Buy Washing Machine Transit Bolts

There are several options when it comes to purchasing washing machine transit bolts. Whether you prefer shopping online or in-store, here are the best places to look:

Manufacturer’s Website: Buying directly from the manufacturer ensures you get the right part for your washing machine. Major brands like LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Bosch offer genuine transit bolts.

Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon, eBay, and specialized appliance parts retailers carry a wide variety of transit bolts for different washing machine models. Make sure to verify compatibility before purchasing.

Appliance Parts Stores: Local appliance parts stores can help you find the correct transit bolts. They often have knowledgeable staff who can help identify the right product for your machine.

Home Improvement Stores: Large home improvement stores like Home Depot, Lowe’s, or B&Q may stock transit bolts, particularly for popular washing machine brands.

How Much Do Transit Bolts Cost?

Transit bolts are generally affordable, but prices can vary depending on the brand, material, and whether you purchase original or third-party replacements. On average, you can expect to pay between $5 and $20 for a set of transit bolts. Original manufacturer bolts may be on the higher end of the price range, while third-party options might be cheaper.

How to Install Washing Machine Transit Bolts

Installing transit bolts is a straightforward process, but it’s important to do it correctly to avoid any damage during transport. Follow these steps:

Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety reasons, always unplug your machine before attempting to install transit bolts.

Locate the Transit Bolt Holes: These are typically found on the back of the washing machine. Most machines will have between 2 to 4 bolt holes.

Insert the Bolts: Carefully insert the transit bolts into the designated holes, and screw them in using a wrench. Make sure they are tightened enough to hold the drum in place but avoid overtightening.

Check for Security: Once all bolts are in place, gently shake the machine to ensure the drum is fully secured. If the drum is still moving, tighten the bolts further.

Tips for Moving Your Washing Machine Safely

In addition to securing transit bolts, here are a few extra tips to help you move your washing machine safely:

Empty the Drum: Ensure the washing machine drum is empty before transport. Water or items left inside can cause imbalance and damage during the move.

Use a Dolly: A dolly makes it easier to transport the machine without straining yourself or risking damage to the unit.

Wrap the Machine: Use protective wrapping or padding to protect the exterior of the washing machine from scratches or dents during the move.

Keep the Machine Upright: Always keep the washing machine upright during transport. Tilting the machine can cause internal components to shift, even with transit bolts installed.

Conclusion

Transit bolts are essential for ensuring the safe transportation of your washing machine. When buying transit bolts, make sure to get the right size and type for your specific model. Whether you're purchasing them online, through the manufacturer, or from a local store, installing transit bolts correctly will help protect your washing machine during the move. By following these tips and investing in the proper parts, you can ensure that your washing machine remains in perfect working condition after any move.