Transport bolts in the dryer: myth or necessity?

Buying a new dryer is an event that promises comfort and time savings. But before the first launch, many users are faced with the question: Does the dryer have shipping bolts?like in washing machines? After all, forgotten fasteners can lead to drum damage, vibrations, or even equipment failure. Unlike washing machines, where transport bolts are a mandatory element, the situation with dryers is ambiguous.

Some models actually come with such mounts, others do not. It all depends on type of construction, brand and even transportation method. For example, Bosch and Siemens plastic fasteners are often used instead of metal bolts, and Samsung can do without them altogether. In this article, we’ll look at how to determine the presence of shipping elements, how they differ from washing machines, and what to do if you don’t find them - or, conversely, forget to remove them.

First, let's understand the terminology. Transport bolts (or clamps) are fasteners that hold the drum stationary during transportation. Their main task is to prevent damage to bearings, shock absorbers and other parts due to shock and vibration. Washing machines always have them, but in dryers their presence depends on several factors.

If you bought heat pump dryer (for example, Miele T1 or Electrolux PerfectCare 900), the likelihood of having shipping bolts is higher due to the sensitivity of the system to vibrations. But in simple ventilation models (for example, Candy CS4 H7A2TE) they may not exist at all. Next we will look in detail at how to check this.

Why don't dryers always have shipping bolts?

The design of a dryer is fundamentally different from a washing machine. In washing machines, the drum is suspended on springs and shock absorbers, which can be damaged during transportation without fixation. In dryers, the drum is often rigidly fixed to the frame or has another vibration damping system.

Key reasons for missing bolts:

• 🔧 Less drum weight. It is usually lighter in dryers than in washing machines, so there is less risk of damage during transportation.
• 🚛 Different center of gravity. Many dryer models have a compact design with even weight distribution.
• 🔄 No water inside. In washing machines, residual moisture can cause corrosion or imbalance, and dryers are transported “dry”.
• 🛠️ Alternative fasteners. Instead of bolts, plastic stoppers, foam inserts or cardboard spacers are used.

However, this does not mean that transport elements are not found in dryers. For example, in models with vertical loading (for example, Whirlpool AWZ 71283) or premium devices (for example, AEG T9DBG862R) they may be present. To avoid mistakes, always check operating instructions — it indicates whether the latches need to be removed before turning on for the first time.

If the instructions are lost, please note box and packaging. Manufacturers often mark the presence of shipping bolts with warning labels (for example, “Remove shipping bolts before use”). Also inspect the back wall of the dryer - there may be special key holes there.

What do shipping bolts look like on dryers?

Unlike washing machines, where the bolts are usually large (10-12 mm in diameter) and located at the back, in dryers they may be less noticeable. Here are the main options:

1. Classic metal bolts (less often):

• 🔩 Usually 3-4 pieces, located on the back panel.
• 🔧 Diameter 6–8 mm, length up to 5 cm.
• 🔍 Can be hidden under decorative plugs.

2. Plastic clips (more often):

• 🔘 They look like large “buttons” or latches.
• 📍 Located inside the drum or on the side walls.
• ⚠️ Sometimes they are confused with the rubber seal fastening elements.

3. Cardboard/foam inserts (in budget models):

• 📦 Located between the drum and the body.
• ✂️ Must be removed manually before turning on for the first time.
• 🚫 Often forgotten because they don’t catch the eye.

An example of the appearance of bolts in a dryer Bosch WTW87560FF:

Latch type	Material	Quantity	Location
Bolt M6	Metal (galvanized)	4 pcs.	Rear panel, under covers
Plastic bracket	Polypropylene	2 pcs.	Inside the drum, on the sides
Foam block	Expanded polystyrene	1 piece	Between drum and front panel

If you are not sure you have found all the fasteners, pay attention to the weight of the drum - if it rotates easily by hand and has no play, most likely the transport elements have already been removed. Otherwise, when turned on, the dryer will vibrate strongly or make uncharacteristic knocking noises.

Instructions: how to remove the transport bolts in the dryer

If you find retainers, they must be removed before the first start. The process is different from washing machines, so follow the step-by-step instructions:

Step 1. Preparing tools

• 🔧 Wrench (usually 10 or 13 mm).
• ⚒️ Screwdriver (phillips or flathead, depending on the model).
• 📦 Box for storing bolts (so as not to lose them!).
• 🧲 Magnet (will help you get fallen bolts out of tight places).

Step 2: Turn off the dryer

Unplug the plug from the socket and make sure that the machine completely de-energized. If the dryer is permanently connected (via a terminal block), turn off the power at the panel.

Step 3. Removing the back panel (if necessary)

In some models (for example, Samsung DV80M5010QW) the bolts are hidden under the rear cover. To remove it:

1. Unscrew 4-6 screws around the perimeter.
2. Gently slide the panel up and back.
3. Do not pull too hard - there may be latches!

Step 4: Removing Bolts

If the bolts are metal:

1. Insert the key and turn counterclockwise.
2. Hold the dryer - it may move if the fasteners are loosened.
3. Remove the bolts and save them (you may need them when moving).

If the fasteners are plastic:

1. Press the latch and pull it towards you.
2. Make sure the drum is free (turn it by hand).

Step 5. Check and assemble

After removing all fasteners:

• Spin the drum - it should rotate smoothly, without jamming.
• Make sure there is no foam or cardboard left inside.
• Close the back panel (if removed) and secure the screws.

Remove shipping bolts/fasteners|

Check the drum for free rotation |

Make sure there are no foreign objects inside|

Close the back panel (if removed)|

Connect the dryer to a grounded outlet -->

If the dryer still vibrates after removing the bolts, check:

• 📏 Installation level — the machine must be level (use a building level).
• 🔄 Drum balancing — the laundry may be loaded unevenly.
• 🔧 Attaching the legs - they must be secured with locknuts.

What happens if the transport bolts are not removed?

Forgotten fasteners are one of the most common causes of dryer failures. The consequences depend on the type of bolts and model of equipment:

1. Metal bolts:

• 🔊 Strong vibration and noise — the drum cannot rotate freely, which leads to impacts on the body.
• 🔥 Engine overheating — due to the increased load, the motor wears out.
• ⚙️ Bearing damage — improper weight distribution accelerates their wear.

2. Plastic clips:

• 🔄 Drum jamming - the plastic may burst and block the mechanism.
• 🔥 Melting parts - When heated, the plastic deforms and releases toxic fumes.

3. Cardboard/foam:

• 🔥 Fire danger - When heated, materials may ignite.
• 🌀 Clogged ventilation system — particles get into filters and air ducts.

⚠️ Attention! In heat pump dryers (e.g. Miele TWI 180 WP) forgotten fasteners can lead to depressurization of the freon circuit. Repairing such a breakdown will cost 50–70% of the cost of a new car.

Average cost to repair a dryer due to shipping bolts:

Type of failure	Repair cost (₽)	Repair period
Replacing bearings	8 000 – 15 000	2–4 days
Engine repair	6 000 – 12 000	1–3 days
Elimination of vibration (balancing)	3 000 – 7 000	1 day
Cleaning the system from foam	4 000 – 9 000	1–2 days

If you have already turned on the dryer with bolts and heard strange sounds, unplug it immediately and inspect the drum. Further use may worsen the damage.

Differences between shipping bolts in dryers of different brands

Each manufacturer uses its own solutions for fixing the drum. Let's look at the features of popular brands:

Bosch and Siemens:

• 🔧 Use plastic clips inside the drum (for example, in models WTW87560FF or WT47N290OE).
• 📦 The box contains a special key for removing them.
• ⚠️ The bolts are hidden under the plugs on the rear panel (if any).

Samsung:

• 🔄 In most models (for example, DV80M5010QW) there are no bolts - instead there are foam inserts.
• 🛠️ In top loading dryers (e.g. DV45H7000EW) there may be metal stoppers.

LG:

• 🔩 Used combined system: 2 plastic clips + cardboard spacer.
• 📍 The bolts are located on the side walls (for example, in LG RC90V9AV2W).

Electrolux and AEG:

• 🔧 In premium models (for example, AEG T9DBG862R) - metal bolts with rubber gaskets.
• 🔍 Requires complete removal of rear panel for access.

Candy and Indesit:

• 📦 Most often they do without bolts - only foam spacers.
• ⚠️ The instructions may not mention the need to remove them!

If your brand is not listed, check serial number on the manufacturer's website - there is usually a 3D diagram with the location of the clamps.

How to find the instructions for a model if it is lost?

1. Look for the serial number on a sticker (usually on the back panel or door).

2. Enter it into the search on the brand’s official website (section “Support” or “Documentation”).

3. If the instructions are in English, use a translator (for example, DeepL) - it conveys technical terms more accurately than Google Translate.

4. Alternative: Find a video disassembly of your model on YouTube (channels like RepairClinic often publish such videos).

Common mistakes when removing transit bolts

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to breakdowns. Here are the most common:

1. Using the wrong tool

• ❌ Problem: The wrong size key or a screwdriver with a licked tip.
• ✅ Solution: Use spanner wrench or a head with a ratchet - they tear off the edges less.

2. Lost bolts or plugs

• ❌ Problem: The bolts were thrown away, but they were needed during the move.
• ✅ Solution: Store them in a bag taped to the instructions or on the inside of the dryer lid.

3. Incomplete removal of retainers

• ❌ Problem: Only the visible bolts were removed, but the plastic latches were left in place.
• ✅ Solution: Turn the drum by hand - if you feel resistance, look for hidden latches.

4. Thread damage

• ❌ Problem: The bolt is jammed, and when trying to unscrew it, the thread is broken.
• ✅ Solution: If the bolt doesn't fit, don't force it - apply WD-40 and wait 10-15 minutes.

5. Ignoring the drum check

• ❌ Problem: Removed the bolts, but did not check whether the drum rotates freely.
• ✅ Solution: After removing the clamps, manually rotate the drum 360° - it should rotate without jamming.

⚠️ Attention! If you hear a grinding or cracking sound when unscrewing a bolt, don't continue - most likely the thread is damaged. In this case, it is better to contact a service center so as not to aggravate the breakdown.

Another common mistake is Confusing shipping bolts with housing fastenings. For example, in dryers Beko Sometimes there are screws holding the top cover in place that are mistaken for drum latches. Always check the diagram in the instructions!

How to check if the shipping bolts have been removed if the instructions are lost?

If you bought a used dryer or lost the documentation, here is the verification algorithm:

Step 1. External inspection

• 🔍 Look at the back panel to see if there are holes for bolts (usually they are closed with plugs).
• 📏 Check if there are warning stickers on the case (for example, “Remove before use”).

Step 2: Check the drum

• 🌀 Spin the drum with your hand. If he:
  • ✅ rotates smoothly, without jamming - there are no bolts.
  • ❌ moves in jerks or does not rotate - the clamps are not removed.
• 🔊 Listen to the sounds - creaking or knocking indicate the presence of foreign elements.

Step 3. Test run (if in doubt)

If the external inspection does not yield results, you can turn on the dryer for a short program without underwear (for example, "Cooling" or "Ventilation"). Signs that the bolts have not been removed:

• 🔊 Strong vibration or knocking.
• 🌀 The drum rotates unevenly.
• 🚨 An error appears on the display (for example, E4 in Samsung or F02 in Bosch).

Step 4. Search by model

If in doubt, find your model on sites like:

• ManualsLib — a database of instructions in English.
• ServiceManuals — diagrams and service manuals.
• YouTube - search for "[dryer model] unboxing" or "transport bolts".

💡

If your dryer vibrates when spinning, it doesn't always mean you forgot to remove the bolts. Possible causes: uneven load of laundry, uneven floor or worn shock absorbers. But if vibration appears the first time you turn it on, check the fasteners!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about shipping bolts in dryers

❓ Do I need to remove the shipping bolts on a heat pump dryer?

✅ Yes, definitely! Heat pump dryers (e.g. Miele T1 or Bosch WTW87560FF) are especially sensitive to vibrations. Unremoved bolts can damage not only the drum, but also the freon circulation system, which will lead to a refrigerant leak. Repairing such a breakdown will cost 30,000–50,000 rubles.

❓ Is it possible to turn on the dryer once with the bolts to check?

❌ Absolutely not! Even a one-time run with clamps can cause:

• 🔧 Bearing breakdown (replacement cost - from 8,000 ₽).
• 🔥 Engine overheating (risk of fire).
• ⚙️ Deformation of the drum (cannot be repaired, only replaced).

If you have already turned on the dryer with bolts and heard strange sounds, turn it off and inspect the drum.

❓ Where to store bolts after removal?

📦 Best options:

• In a bag attached to the instructions.
• In the dryer box (if stored).
• In a tool bag (label which equipment it was from).

⚠️ Don't throw away the bolts - you will need them when moving or sending your car for service!

❓ What to do if the bolt breaks when unscrewing?

🛠️ Instructions for removing the fragment:

1. Spray the area with WD-40 and wait 15 minutes.
2. Use bolt extractor (sold in auto stores).
3. If that doesn't help, drill out the bolt with a drill of a smaller diameter, then cut a new thread.

🔧 If you are not confident in your abilities, contact the service - independent attempts may damage the case.

❓ Are there shipping bolts in a gas dryer?

✅ Yes, but less often. Gas dryers (eg Whirlpool WGD9620HW) is usually heavier and more massive, so manufacturers often use:

• 🔩 Metal bolts (4–6 pieces).
• 🛠️ Additional gas hose clamps.

⚠️ Important! In a gas dryer, you should not remove the bolts yourself - this may compromise the tightness of the gas system. Contact a specialist!