28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing is a dedicated bearing assembly used in Speed Queen top-load washing machines to support the tub and drive shaft; it is indeed a precision mechanical component designed to reduce friction and carry radial and axial loads between the rotating inner tub and the stationary transmission or outer tub. As a bearing element it typically consists of metal races and rolling elements (or a sealed cartridge), and in many service contexts it is treated as a replaceable module that includes seals or fits into a bearing retainer or hub. The part is engineered to maintain alignment under spin and wash loads while resisting contamination from water and detergents.
Inside the appliance the bearing interfaces directly with the inner tub hub or spindle, the drive/transmission output, the tub seal assembly and the appliance suspension system; its condition affects torque transmission, rotational runout, and the mechanical coupling between the motor/transmission and the basket. Bearings operate in a harsh environment-exposed to moisture, temperature cycles and particulate contamination-so they work in concert with shaft seals, bearing retainers and the cabinet mounting to preserve axial position and concentricity during wash and spin cycles. Failure of this component therefore manifests as increased vibration, noise, misalignment that can accelerate seal failure, and, if unchecked, damage to adjacent structural parts.
In this article you will find a technical overview of the 28944RP bearing’s function and construction, guidance on model compatibility and how to confirm the correct replacement, common failure symptoms to observe, and practical troubleshooting checks a technician or owner can perform. The article also covers replacement considerations such as removal and installation challenges, required tools and fixtures, seal and grease requirements, inspection of mating surfaces, and decisions about OEM versus aftermarket replacements and when surrounding components should be serviced or replaced concurrently.
Table of Contents
- Functional Role of Upper and Lower Bearings in the Speed Queen Washer Spin Assembly
- How the 28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing Operates Within the Tub, Spindle, and Seal Interface
- Common Failure Symptoms and Field Diagnostics for Worn upper or Lower Bearings
- Model Compatibility, Replacement Considerations, and Step‑by‑Step Installation Procedures for 28944RP Bearings
- Q&A
- Key Takeaways
Functional Role of Upper and Lower Bearings in the Speed Queen Washer Spin Assembly
The 28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or lower Bearing provides low-friction support for the spin basket assembly, transmitting radial and axial loads from the inner tub and shaft to the outer housing while allowing high-speed rotation. In many Speed Queen designs the upper bearing is primarily engaged in centering and handling axial thrust from the tub during spin cycles, while the lower bearing takes the bulk of radial load and supports the shaft; some model variants use dedicated upper and lower bearings with different sealing and race configurations. Compatibility depends on the exact model and service manual specification, so technicians should confirm the washer serial and part number before replacement to ensure race dimensions, seal type, and mounting method match the washer’s spin assembly.
Failed or degraded bearings change assembly behavior by introducing vibration, uneven loading of the spider and basket, higher motor current, and eventual seal breach that allows grease or water intrusion. Typical symptoms include audible grinding or rumbling at high RPM, visible wobble of the basket, and lubricant leakage; addressing the issue requires replacing worn races, checking the shaft and housing for scoring, and installing the replacement with the correct orientation and interference fit. Practical installation notes: bearings are usually a press-fit in the housing with the inner race located on the shaft, seals oriented outward to keep contaminants away from the rollers, and sealed-for-life bearings should not be relubricated.
- Grinding or rumbling noise during spin
- Excessive vibration or basket wobble
- Grease or water found at the base of the tub
- Higher motor current or tripped overloads during spin
| Item | description |
|---|---|
| Location | Upper: centering/axial support; Lower: primary radial support and shaft load transfer |
| Failure modes | Seal wear, corrosion, roller/race wear leading to noise, heat, and lubricant loss |
| Installation note | Press-fit into housing, verify inner/outer race condition and part number before installation |
How the 28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing Operates Within the Tub, Spindle, and Seal Interface
28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing functions as the mechanical interface that maintains spindle concentricity and transmits radial and axial loads between the inner tub and the washer’s drive/transmission assembly. in service the bearing controls the spindle axis under static and dynamic loads, minimizes lateral play that would cause seal lip wear, and provides a hardened race for smooth rotation. The bearing sits directly adjacent to the tub seal and spindle, so its dimensional fit and roundness determine how well the seal maintains a watertight barrier; any increase in play or surface roughness at the bearing will accelerate seal abrasion and permit moisture intrusion to the bearing cavity.
Practically, technicians diagnose bearing issues by observing vibration, rumbling during spin, or visible lateral movement of the tub or spindle; these symptoms indicate the bearing no longer maintains the required alignment. Replacement of a worn 28944RP should include inspection of the spindle surface,the tub seating area,and the seal lip – damaged spindles or scored housings will shorten the life of a new bearing. Installation is typically a press-fit operation requiring correct seating, and seals should be replaced during bearing service to restore the seal interface; documenting fitment (upper versus lower position), confirming part compatibility with the specific Speed Queen model, and using correct tooling improves service outcomes.
- Common symptoms: increased vibration, rumbling during spin, visible spindle/tub play, and leaking at the tub-seal interface.
- Functional behavior: supports radial/axial loads, preserves spindle alignment, and protects the seal from excessive wear.
- Service notes: press-fit installation, inspect spindle and tub seating, replace seals when changing bearings.
| item | Description |
|---|---|
| position | Serves as an upper or lower bearing depending on assembly; lower usually carries the main vertical load, upper aids alignment. |
| Primary function | Maintain concentric rotation of the spindle, control lateral play, and interface with the tub seal to prevent moisture ingress. |
| Replacement considerations | inspect spindle and housing for scoring, use correct press-fit tools, and replace seals to preserve bearing life. |
Common Failure Symptoms and Field Diagnostics for Worn Upper or Lower Bearings
The 28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing functions as the rotating-support element for the washer tub assembly, carrying radial and axial loads while maintaining concentric rotation of the inner basket. A worn bearing increases radial runout and allows the tub to wobble, which changes the load distribution on the transmission and seal surfaces. In the field, worn bearings commonly show a low-frequency rumble under load, a metallic groan at higher speeds, or intermittent squealing if the bearing race is partially seized; water intrusion through a failed seal accelerates corrosion and grease breakdown, producing abrasive wear on the shaft and race. Technicians should confirm model compatibility from the machine’s model plate or parts list before ordering replacement parts and inspect the bearing race and shaft for scoring when disassembling the hub.
Field diagnostics combine simple mechanical checks with sensory observation to isolate upper versus lower bearing failure. Start with a spin test (manually rotate the basket with the drive disengaged) to feel roughness or binding, then use a pry-bar or calibrated dial indicator to measure radial and axial play; more than a few millimeters of movement or detectable runout suggests bearing wear. Use a stethoscope or long screwdriver as a listening probe while spinning the drum to localize the noise, and check seals and the area under the tub for grease or rust stains that indicate seal failure. Replacing a failed bearing typically requires pressing out the old race and installing the new component with proper seating tools to avoid preloading or misalignment that would shorten service life.
- Low-frequency rumble during spin: indicates race wear or loss of clearance.
- High-pitched squeal on acceleration: possible partial seizure or seal rubbing.
- Visible grease or rust beneath the tub: seal failure and water contamination.
- Excessive radial/axial play when pried: mechanical looseness in bearing or hub.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Spin test | Manual rotation with drive disengaged to detect roughness, binding, or noise. |
| Axial/radial play | Measured with pry-bar or dial indicator; noticeable movement indicates wear. |
| Seal/grease inspection | Look for external grease stains or rust as evidence of seal breach and contamination. |
Model Compatibility, Replacement Considerations, and Step‑by‑Step Installation procedures for 28944RP Bearings
The 28944RP Speed Queen Washer Upper or Lower Bearing functions as the radial support for the washer’s rotating tub and hub assembly, maintaining concentric alignment while minimizing friction between the inner tub and the stationary shaft. Compatibility depends on the hub bore diameter, outer race press-fit dimensions, and seal interface for the specific Speed Queen model; technicians must verify shaft diameter, snap ring locations, and whether the model uses a combined hub/bearing carrier or a pressed-in standalone bearing before ordering a replacement.Typical failure modes include abrasive wear from water intrusion, inner-race scoring, and axial play that manifests as grinding noise, increased vibration, or visible wobble of the inner tub – replacing the bearing often requires simultaneous replacement of the tub seal and inspection of the shaft for pitting or bending to ensure long-term reliability.
- inspection checkpoints: audible grinding or rumbling during spin, lateral play of the tub (>0.5-1 mm), oil or water along the shaft, visual rust or pitting on the bearing race or shaft.
Installation requires controlled disassembly and the correct pressing and sealing procedures: disconnect power and water, remove the agitator/basket and any drive pulley or clutch components, then support the tub and remove retaining rings or carrier fasteners to access the bearing.Use a bearing press or hydraulic press with properly sized sleeves that bear only on the bearing outer race when removing and installing; press the new bearing squarely to the specified shoulder, install a new tub seal with a seal driver to avoid lip distortion, and reinstall retaining hardware to factory torque while observing alignment of the hub and shaft. After reassembly perform a no-load spin test to verify quiet operation and check for leaks; if shaft scoring is present, machine or replace the shaft rather than relying on a new bearing alone.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Recommended tools | Bearing press or hydraulic press, seal driver, snap ring pliers, torque wrench |
| Consumables | High‑temperature bearing grease (on race interface only as specified), new tub seal, threadlocker where specified |
| Service note | Always replace the tub seal with the bearing; inspect shaft for scoring and replace or machine if damage is found |
Q&A
What is the 28944RP bearing and which part of a Speed Queen washer does it replace?
The 28944RP is a replacement bearing kit used in certain Speed Queen washers. It contains the bearing(s) and often the associated seal(s) that support the washer tub or shaft. This kit is used to replace worn upper or lower bearings that allow the inner tub and agitator assembly to rotate smoothly.
What are the common symptoms of a failing upper or lower bearing on a Speed Queen washer?
Typical symptoms include loud rumbling, grinding, or squealing noises during spin or agitate cycles; wobbling or excessive tub movement; metal-on-metal vibration; and in some cases water leaking from the tub seams or the bottom of the machine.Noise and play when you manually spin the tub or check the shaft are strong indicators.
How can I test whether the bearing (upper or lower) is the problem?
Disconnect power and water first. Manually spin the inner basket and listen/feel for roughness or grinding. Push the basket/shield radially to check for excessive play. Inspect the tub area for metal shavings,grease,or wet seals. If the tub spins rough or has noticeable lateral movement, the bearings are likely worn.
Can I replace just the upper bearing or do I need to replace both upper and lower bearings at the same time?
If only one bearing is accessible without disassembling the rest, it can be replaced individually, but it’s good practice to replace all bearings and seals that are accessible during the repair.Bearings frequently enough wear together, and replacing both bearings and seals when you have the tub apart reduces the chance of a second failure shortly after.
What tools and skills are required to replace the 28944RP bearing?
Replacing these bearings typically requires moderate mechanical skill and tools: socket/wrench set, screwdrivers, pliers, bearing puller or drift/press, seal driver or appropriate sized socket, rubber mallet, penetrating oil, and possibly a hydraulic press depending on the model. You should be agreeable disassembling the washer tub and reinstalling components and seals. If you’re not experienced with appliance disassembly or lack the needed tools,hire a technician.
Are the bearings in the 28944RP kit pre-lubricated,and do I need to add grease during installation?
Most modern replacement bearings are sealed and pre-lubricated from the factory; you should not disassemble them or add grease. Replace any associated seals and ensure surfaces are clean before installing. Use the seal provided in the kit or a correct replacement to keep contaminants and water out of the bearing.
How much does the 28944RP bearing kit cost and how long will the repair take?
prices vary by supplier, but expect the part itself to commonly range from roughly $30 to $100 depending on whether it includes seals and other hardware. Labor time depends on the model and your experience; for a competent DIYer with proper tools it can take 2-4 hours. A professional technician may take similar time but will add labor charges.
How do I confirm the 28944RP is the correct replacement for my Speed Queen washer?
check your washer’s model number (usually on a tag inside the lid or on the back) and cross-reference it with the part number in Speed Queen’s parts list or the parts supplier’s compatibility chart. If unsure, provide the washer model and serial to the parts supplier or a Speed Queen service center and ask them to confirm compatibility before ordering.
Key Takeaways
The 28944RP Speed Queen washer upper or lower bearing is a critical mechanical component that supports the wash tub, maintains drum alignment, and reduces friction and wear during operation. Proper functioning of this bearing ensures smooth rotation, minimizes vibration and noise, and helps protect adjacent components such as seals, the tub, and the drive system. Because bearings carry load and tolerate continuous movement, their condition has a direct impact on overall appliance performance and longevity.
Accurate diagnosis and timely replacement of a worn or damaged 28944RP bearing are meaningful to prevent secondary damage and restore safe, efficient operation. Symptoms such as unusual noise, excessive vibration, wobbling drums, or leaks warrant inspection; confirming the bearing as the root cause avoids unneeded parts replacement. When replacement is required, using the correct part and following manufacturer procedures or relying on qualified service ensures proper fit, seal integrity, and reassembly, reducing the risk of repeat failure.
attention to the condition of the 28944RP Speed Queen upper or lower bearing through appropriate troubleshooting and professional repair preserves washer reliability and performance. Replacing a defective bearing promptly and to specification is a cost-effective measure that supports long-term serviceability and helps maintain the appliance’s intended operating standards.
Professional Appliance Service
If your appliance requires professional diagnosis or repair, visit
Revolff Home Services
for expert appliance repair services.
For local appliance service information see
Dryer repair Henderson
.
Replacement parts for many appliance models can also be found at
Reliable-Parts-Hub
.
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