How to Replace 4901ER2003A Shock Absorber on LG Washers — Step-by-Step

Your LG washer sounds like it's trying to escape across the laundry room floor. That violent shaking during the spin cycle isn't normal — and it's probably your shock absorbers calling it quits. Models like the WM3431HS, WM2101HW, and WM3555HWA use shock absorbers to keep the drum steady during high-speed spins. When these wear out, you'll hear it.

What You Need Before Starting

This repair takes about 45-60 minutes and requires basic hand tools. You'll need:

• 10mm socket wrench or nut driver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Towels (to catch any residual water)
• Work gloves

Difficulty: Moderate — You'll be tipping the washer, but the actual part swap is straightforward.

Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes

Safety First

Unplug the washer completely before you start. Even with the power off, there may be residual water in the tub — have towels ready. You'll be working underneath the machine, so make sure you have help tipping it safely. Shock absorbers are under tension, so release them carefully to avoid pinching fingers.

Step 1: Access the Bottom of Your Washer

Pull the washer away from the wall and disconnect the water supply lines. Unplug the power cord. You'll need to tip the washer forward to access the shock absorbers underneath — they're mounted between the base frame and the tub assembly. Have someone help you lean it forward at about a 45-degree angle, resting it against a padded surface. The shock absorbers will be visible as cylindrical units connecting the outer tub to the base.

Step 2: Remove the Failed Shock Absorber

Each shock absorber attaches with two bolts — one at the top connecting to the tub bracket, and one at the bottom connecting to the base frame. Use your 10mm socket to remove both mounting bolts. The absorber is under slight tension, so support it as you remove the last bolt. Once both bolts are out, pull the shock absorber straight out from its mounting points. Inspect the old part — you'll likely see fluid leaking or the piston fully compressed, which explains the shaking.

Step 3: Install the New 4901ER2003A Shock Absorber

Position the new shock absorber between the tub bracket and base frame. Start with the top mounting bolt first — align the shock with the tub bracket hole and thread the bolt in by hand. Don't tighten it completely yet. Now align the bottom end with the base frame hole and install that bolt. Once both bolts are started, tighten them alternately to ensure even seating. Torque them snug but don't overtighten — you'll strip the mounting points.

Step 4: Repeat for Remaining Shock Absorbers

LG washers typically have three or four shock absorbers. If one failed, the others aren't far behind. Check the remaining absorbers while you're under there — if they're leaking fluid or feel soft when you compress them manually, replace those too. It'll save you from doing this job again in three months. Follow the same removal and installation process for each absorber.

Step 5: Return Washer to Upright Position

Carefully lower the washer back to its upright position. Reconnect the water lines and plug it back in. Before you push it back against the wall, check that all four leveling feet are making solid contact with the floor. Run an empty spin cycle to test — the washer should stay put without walking across the floor. If you still hear minor vibration, adjust the leveling feet until the machine is perfectly level.

Testing After Installation

Run a complete wash cycle with a full load of laundry. During the spin cycle, watch for excessive movement — the washer should vibrate slightly but stay in place. Listen for the smooth hum of the motor instead of banging or knocking sounds. If the washer is still shaking violently, double-check that all shock absorber bolts are tight and that you didn't miss replacing a failed unit. Also verify the load is balanced — even with new shocks, an off-balance load will cause movement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I replace all shock absorbers at once or just the bad one?

Replace all of them. Shock absorbers wear at similar rates, so if one failed, the others are close behind. Replacing just one leaves you with mismatched dampening, which can actually make vibration worse. It's like replacing one worn tire — you'll end up with an unbalanced system.

Will this part work on my WM2016CW or WM3170CW model?

Yes. The 4901ER2003A fits a wide range of LG front-load washers including the WM2016CW, WM3170CW, WM1814CW, WM2050CW, and dozens of other models. Check your model number against the compatibility list, but this is one of the most universal LG shock absorber replacements available.

Why does my washer shake more during spin cycle than wash cycle?

The spin cycle runs at much higher RPM — typically 1000-1200 rotations per minute. That's when worn shock absorbers can't control the tub movement anymore. During the wash cycle, the drum moves slower with less force, so damaged shocks can still somewhat manage the load. Once spin kicks in, failed shocks let the tub bang against the cabinet, creating that violent shaking you're experiencing.