How to Replace Bosch Washing Machine Shock Absorbers (BSH 00742719)

Bosch washers use two shock absorbers connecting tub bottom to base frame. They dampen spin-cycle movement. Worn shocks cause: excessive vibration, banging sounds, machine walking, and oil leaks. BSH 00742719 is a pair.

Before You Start

• Tools needed: Torx T20 (if removing front panel), flathead screwdriver (pin tabs), pliers
• Parts needed: BSH 00742719 ($50-$70 for pair). Always replace both.
• Time required: 30-45 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Safety warning: Two people recommended. Machine weighs 170-190 lbs. If accessing from below, ensure stable support when tilted.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Access the Shock Absorbers

From below (recommended): Two people lay the machine on its back (protect rear hoses). Both shocks fully visible from base.

From the front: Remove front panel (top panel off → control panel tilted → gasket clamp released → front panel removed). Both shocks visible.

Step 2: Remove Old Shocks

Each shock has a pin at the top (tub bracket) and bottom (frame bracket). Each pin has a plastic locking tab.

For each pin: press the locking tab inward with a flathead screwdriver while pushing the pin out through the opposite side. Once the pin is free, that end slides out of the bracket.

Remove both pins from one shock, extract it. Repeat for the second. Note which end connects where (tub vs frame may have different eye sizes).

Step 3: Install New Shocks

Position each new shock with correct orientation (larger eye to tub bracket typically). Align mounting eye with bracket hole. Insert pin through bracket and shock eye until locking tab clicks. Verify by tugging — pin must not pull free.

Repeat for all four connection points (2 per shock x 2 shocks = 4 pins total).

Step 4: Test

Return to upright. Push test: press drum down through door opening and release — should bounce once and settle. Run spin cycle with balanced load (4-5 towels). Machine should be stable. Minor vibration at 1200+ RPM is normal; banging/walking is not.

Post-install: recalibrate with Start + RPM held 3 seconds (remaps vibration profile for new damping).

Troubleshooting

• Vibration still present: Check top suspension springs (work with shocks as a system). Also re-level machine.
• Banging continues: Verify no shipping bolts installed. Check for foreign objects between drum and tub (underwire, coin).
• One side drops more: Shock on that side not fully pinned. Recheck locking tab engagement.
• Oil on floor: Residual from old shocks during removal. If fresh oil from new shocks, possible defect — return.

When to Call a Professional

• Machine too heavy to tip safely (tight laundry room, no helper available)
• Tub mounting brackets are cracked (shock pins will not hold)
• Vibration persists after new shocks + new springs + re-leveling (bearing failure suspected)

Cost Comparison: DIY vs Professional

Need Professional Help?

• Washing machine repair service
• Bosch appliance repair

FAQ

Q: Can I replace just one shock absorber? A: Strongly discouraged. Mismatched damping causes asymmetric tub movement and accelerates bearing wear. Always replace as a pair.

Q: How do I test if shocks are worn? A: Push test through door: press drum down firmly, release. Multiple bounces = worn shocks. Single bounce and settle = shocks OK (vibration from another cause).

Q: Do the mounting pins wear out? A: The plastic locking tabs can become brittle after 10+ years. New shocks include new pins with fresh tabs.

Q: How long do Bosch shocks last? A: 8-12 years with normal use. Heavy loads and maximum spin speeds accelerate wear. Shocks are the first component to inspect when vibration increases after 8+ years of use.

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