Kenmore HE 3t Front Loading washer, rubber seal torn

Please join us in this petition to have GE recall this front loading washer! Thanks :)
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/739/633/604/recall-ge-wcvh-front-loading-washing-machines-due-to-smoking-fire-hazard/

yes it can be replaced, good luck though. we have bought a new machine because we have had two seals tear.

The front door seal is referred to as the "bellow". They do wear out with age and can also become mishapened from repeated pressure from the door being closed. Over time the bellow can stretch or develop rips and tears and begin to leak. If the bellow is leaking, or no longer sealing correctly, the following link explains how to replace one:

http://www.fixya.com/support/r3574186-installing_a_door_bellow_on_a_front_load


Replacement parts (if required) can be purchased at any of the following websites:

searspartsdirect.com
pcappliancerepair.com
appliancepartspros.com
repairclinic.com

All these sites are reputable and offer great service with competitive pricing, so shop and compare. The first three sites I listed also include helpful exploded view parts diagrams to assist you in locating and properly identifying the parts you need.

If you have any questions, please post back and let me know. I hope this helps you.

NOTE: If you leave the door OPEN between washes this will help prevent constant pressure on the door seal which can stretch it out of shape over time. It is also beneficial to allow the wash tub to air out to prevent mold and mildew from forming. Also DO NOT overload the washer. This can contribute to premature wear of the door bellow and cause rips and tears.

If the tear is small, try using silicon glue to repair it--clean the surface of the boot and apply the glue. Let dry for 24 hours before using the machine. If the tear is large, the boot must be replaced. It can be done from the front without removing the cabinet, but it's tricky. These tears usually occur when trying to remove jeans and a metal button catches the rubber.

Check the big rubber seal around the door for any holes or tears. Had the same problem, my husband had a screw in his pocket that torn a hole in the gasket.

Is it coming from the front? You can take the bottom panel off and look inside. If the middle is not wet, it may be from a torn door gasket. Pull back the rubber seal on the machine (not the door) and you may see a big tear. That's what happened to ours. We ordered a new one on ebay and we are installing it now.

My husband used super glue on the tear and for now the washer is not leaking.

We had the same problem, I printed off the solution posted by john_in_erie. His repair directions were VERY acurate, however we find a few helpful additions to the repairs - 1st in step #6, the spring loaded wire, is in the front of the gasket under seal (we were looking on top of machine). Also in step #8, you need a short phillips screwdriver or a 7 mm socket with a 1/4" ratchet because of the position of the screw to get around the edge of the tub.
Thank you so much John, we could have not done it without your very accurate installation instructions.
Lori & Mitch Headen

The following link provides you with step-by-step instructions on how to change the door bellow:

http://www.fixya.com/support/r385210-replacing_door_bellow_kenmore_elite

This is not a difficult repair. Just follow the steps provided. If you have any questions, please let me know. I hope you find this information helpful.

probably some rubberize installation are screw to the case or body/ you only need pollout are screw driver philips or flat .