When your GE washer has a burning smell, stop the cycle, unplug the machine, and let it cool before inspecting it. The most likely cause is a failed rotor and stator kit. The stator is part of the direct-drive motor, and wet or shorted coils can make a washing machine burning smell. If the stator is smoking or smells burnt, test the coils with a meter and replace the kit if it fails. Next, inspect the main control board, motor control board, and control board for burn marks caused by a power surge or shorted component. A worn water pump belt can slip on the pulleys and create a washer burning smell, so check that the motor pulley and water pump turn freely. Finally, examine the drive belt for fraying, wear, or slipping. A stuck water pump or idler pulley can create friction and make the washer smell like burning rubber. Do not operate the GE washer if you see smoke or damaged wiring. Enter your model number to find the exact rotor and stator kit, control board, motor control board, water pump belt, or drive belt for your specific washing machine.
01 - GE Washing Machine Rotor and Stator Kit
The stator is part of a direct drive motor that electrically drives the outer rotor. If the stator coils become wet or the coated wires on the coils short out, they can produce a burning smell. You can test the stator coils with a meter. If the stator is smoking, or smells burnt, it will need to be replaced.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
The main control board provides power to the various components of the washer. If the control board receives a power surge, or a component fails, the control board can short-out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. A burnt main control board will need to be replaced.
The motor control board sends power to the motor. If the motor shorts out or a power surge occurs components on the board can blow out causing a burning smell. Inspect the motor control board for burn marks and replace if necessary.
The control board provides power to the components of the washer. If the control board receives a power surge or a component fails, the control board can short out causing a burning smell. Inspect the control board for burn marks. If the control board is burnt, it will need to be replaced.
The water pump belt can get worn and slip on the pulleys causing a burning smell. Check the motor pulley for wear and make sure the water pump turns freely.
If the drive belt is worn or frayed it can slip on the pulley causing friction and a burning smell. Also check the components the belt is turning to make sure they turn freely. A stuck water pump or idler pulley can create enough friction to cause the belt to burn.