LG/Kenmore Front-Load Washer Leaking? Door Boot Seal

This video provides step-by-step repair instructions for replacing the door boot seal on a LG/Kenmore front-loading washing machine. The most common reason for replacing the door boot seal is when the washer is leaking water.
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All of the information for this door boot seal replacement video is applicable to the following brands:
LG, Kenmore
Tools needed: spring expansion tool, screwdriver, snap ring pliers
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[@49Jersey]

Couldn't have replaced our Kenmore door boot seal if not for this fantastic video. Professionally shot and narrated with clear step by step. Took me about an hour and the spring expansion tool is a must have. Thanks so much for producing this extremely helpful video. Highly recommended if you're replacing the door boot seal.

[@elenashipp6633]

I appreciate this video because it let me know that I really should hire a professional for this job. I know that sounds strange but it really is helpful.

[@repairclinic]

We completely understand. Sometimes the best tool in the tool box is the check book!

[@billydarley6925]

i used to overhaul front loaders a long time ago. about to work on mine pretty soon. its not hard once youve done it a couple times. theyre all pretty much the same.

[@keithbreiner1783]

Great video. I struggled with two steps, and the first of those was my poor interpretation of the video's instructions. However, I did successfully complete the replacement for our Kenmore Elite front load washer with a little persistence. Both problems were related to getting the inner seal of the new Boot Ring attached. I initially wasted a lot of effort and time trying to get the new ring around / outside the tub ring, instead of pushing the opening in the Boot Ring (lubricated with dish soap in the video) onto the ridge around the tub ring. Once I was trying to do the right thing, it went on fairly easy. The second challenge was getting the inner spring successfully inserted into its channel once the interior seal was seated properly. I had a spring expansion tool purchased from Amazon that worked awesome for the exterior ring. It didn't appear to fit one of the holes for the interior ring clamp spring so I tried the zip tie work around. After breaking a few of those and narrowly avoiding some hand injuries, I went back to using the spring expansion tool as shown on the video. However, I had to insert it into the spring hole on one side and the metal clamp ring on the other side since the spring hole was too small. That "ring" had a small gap, but once I closed it with a pliers, using the spring expansion tool connected to the larger of the two spring holes on one side and the metal ring on the other did the trick! The spring expansion tool I purchased opened to a width of five inches. With the above caveat, it worked great for removing and installing both the interior and exterior spring clamps.

[@BigWhite002]

Amazon for parts. KZbin for repairs. Perfect combo. Great video. Mine was a little different but I managed.

[@mykie242]

Excellent video! I was able to get my leaking Kenmore (LG) back up and running within a couple of days including delivery of the new boot seal! Just to prevent the metal clips from rubbing another hole in the boot, I wrapped them tightly with duct tape.

[@barneymccomas]

It is NOT necessary to remove anything but the door boot seal and everything connected to it. It may be easier to replace the retention rings with the front removed, but I did it very easily (after buying a spring expansion tool) without taking anything else apart. Those of you who figured out how to install the retaining rings without the tool have my admiration! I think the best advice was to make two large rings out of zip ties through the loops on either side of the spring. Brilliant! It took me two hours and $28 to locate and buy the tool.

[@bluedestiny]

The zip tie made it so much easier.

[@qfluxer]

Very nice! Replaced the boot seal no issues due to this video. Very important to get the tool to remove the springs!!

[@Naloxone2]

I am doing this replacement either tonight or tomorrow, thank you for posting this, I will have it playing as I do the repair.

[@repairclinic]

Thanks! We're glad you found it helpful!

[@jameslamarche8685]

Good basics, my washer wasn't the exact model but most of the steps applied. Comments helped below--esp the zip tie handles. I also used 2x vice grips to keep the rear spring seal from popping out during seat...not enough to damage the seal, it's pretty stout material. Also wedged cork between seal and weighted faceplate to assist in seating rear seal. Couldn't have done all that w/o taking the front door/panel off, props to the guy who said he did below!

[@repairclinic]

That's great! We're glad we could help out.

[@MertCorwin]

This is a great aid to doing this seal installation.

[@JimVarneyHaHa]

I just completed the job and am now here for the comments. It was a PIA. All that work to replace an expendable item... smh. The part where i had the most trouble was installing the gasket back on. It took me a minute to figure out that the groove on the back of it goes over the “outer tub.” Putting the springs back on was tricky as well. I used the tool and I found that you need to keep the loops on the tips of the tool. With cleaning behind and underneath the washer the whole job took me about 2 hours. I would do it again but would not be very enthusiastic about it.

[@repairclinic]

+ Chris Andrews The outer tool should work for both. They are just designed a little differently but work the same way.

[@S1000XR]

After watching your video, I bought the door boot seat from your website, and replaced it, thank you.

[@repairclinic]

You're welcome. We also carry the tools and genuine OEM replacement parts at RepairClinic.com. We hope you have a great day.

[@S1000XR]

@@repairclinic I know I bought the door boot seal from your website, except the tool :)

[@raulecastro]

Excellent video. I just fixed the boot seal on my Kenmore HE 4T with your videos help. Thanks so much.

[@repairclinic]

+Raul Castro You are welcome.

[@Stoic_Zoomer]

I was having so much trouble doing it thru the door like a dumbass! Thank you guys y'all saved me a lot of trouble and money

[@nidiabarraza8013]

hi, thank you! it's the same way for Kenmore HE2 plus washer machine???

[@LifestyleofaFoodie]

Thanks so much for this video. Just replaced it watching this video~!!

[@mikebeach2474]

I just did this to my Kenmore Elite HE-5T and it was very easy to do. I used to be a mechanic 15 years ago but haven't done anything since. The part cost me $120 and it only took me an hour to do. My advice is not to be afraid to use a flat head screw driver as a wedge to get the rear of the seal on but be very careful not to poke it in anyway. Good luck, I know I saved myself atleast $200 doing this myself. Thank you Repair Clinic, great video!!

[@repairclinic]

***** Congrats on the successful repair, Mike!

[@paulwells2417]

It looks easy I will find out !

[@tundruu]

I just used this guide today. Easy to follow. Worked geat. Thanks!

[@repairclinic]

tundruu We're happy to help!

[@jasonandrade2011]

really nice video - and applicable to other LG models. perhaps you could also do one for replacing the drainage bellows ? that seems to be the next most likely thing to cause water leaks..

[@bluedestiny]

My boot seal lasted only a year before it warp and need to be replace. Like the suggestions below, I used ZIP TIES to pull the metal spring wire apart, made the job so much easier. I tie a loop and use two screwdriver through the zip ties and pull it off each end. On reassembly i use a flat head and work the wire back into the seal position. I got a Kenmore brand, so it didn't have the extra part on the top, steam, etc.. One caution, the edge are sharp, i got cut three times without noticing.

[@repairclinic]

That really depends on the model. Some require you to take the dryer apart.

[@ryukaryonin]

Thanks to SWOTAR below. No sping spreader? Use zip ties and brute strength! Got it

[@mikeryan6277]

Video was very helpful the only thing I would add is on the new Boot Seal I had to cut open the openings for the fill tubes and the light.

[@scumpuppies]

Does this apply to the Kenmore Front Load Washer (Model 41182)? Thank you.

[@scottdouglas9688]

Great video.Just replaced the rubber gasket on my LG.Right on the money with the instruction.:)

[@repairclinic]

Scott Douglas We're glad the repair went well!

[@nancyrobles6802]

Thank you 🙏

[@jeffrobertson6977]

Worked like a charm! Thanks very much. The springs were a bear, though. Almost wish I'd bought the tool...almost.

[@repairclinic]

Good work!

[@catherinecole2064]

I just purchased a older kenmore Elite model SM 9711033A I set my settings the tub filled up put clothes in than waited after closed lid nothing it's not agitating spinning or draining water what is your suggestion im at a lost for words

[@doudy555]

Is this part will work for Kenmore elite model 11047701800 or not? When I searched, it was listed for Machine Door Boot Gasket for LG Kenmore? Thanks

[@klepper00]

Where can I get this spring expansion tool ?

[@ernestobolanos8078]

what is the part number for the rubber seal, I found something that says K510 but just want to be sure before I order it. thanks

[@repairclinic]

We have one for the drain bellows. If you go to our channel page, under washer repair help, and select the LG/Kenmore playlist, you'll find it there.

[@danielgatto5500]

im having issues at @ in the video the rubber isnt moving at all (yes i took off the spring that goes around it) but it doesnt wanna budge even with using pliers lightly!! not to damage the seal ANY ADVICE??? I JUST WANNA DO MY LAUNDRY LOL

[@bmlsb]

Be sure to check your drain port, My drain port was clogged.

[@JSHolcomb7]

I have water in the door seal/door boot after doing several loads of wash (which I've done many times with no issues). How can I drain it? Should I get it looked at?

[@rafalciemski430]

There is video on youtube how to put that spring back whit out a tool. It took me 3 tries and less than 2 minutes to put it back. After over an hour i almost give up on it.

[@CAndrewsMtP]

Getting ready to clean, and possibly replace the door seal on my roughly 10 yr old LG front loader. Drain hole at 6 o'clock on the seal is clogged with dirt, dog hair, gunk, whatever. I removed and cleaned this one time before, and remember removing the retaining rings was very tough without the tool, and I almost called a tech before finally getting them back on. I ordered the spring removal tool - 383EER4001A - which is described as the "outer boot seal retaining ring removal tool" - due to arrive tomorrow. I just noticed today that there is an "inner boot seal removal tool" which is slightly different, but almost twice the price! In the video above it appears the tech only uses the "outer" tool I have on order for both the "outer" and "inner" rings. Don't see the "inner" tool used at all in the video. Is it really necessary to order the "inner" tool also, or will the "outer" tool work for both? TIA, Chris

[@repairclinic]

Yes. You cannot remove the control panel without removing the top panel.

[@Alycanj]

went to your website to search for model part and got "that model not found try another" LMAO I only have the one,,, good video useless at finding actual part I need

[@repairclinic]

Jeff Wilson Outer boot seal retaining ring removal tool: www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Spring-Removal-Tool/383EER4001A/1268535 Inner boot seal removal tool: www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Spring-Removal-Tool/383EER4004A/1318289

[@repairclinic]

You can get it on our website. If you click the top link in the description of this video you'll see two spring removal tools under "Suggested Tools"

[@patrickobrien6648]

What model is this one?

[@repairclinic]

It depends on your model number. If you enter your model number into our website it will show you the right seal.

[@rodimus371]

Satan designed that spring , god help you if you don’t have that tool

[@veuvitale9314]

1

[@BubbasBOLTZ]

Agreed! I needed 6 hands and 3 flathead screwdrivers to reinstall.

[@billydarley6925]

harbor freight O ring picks. the jay hooks should work pretty good. im about to tear into mine pretty soon to replace the drain pump. if i have to improvise ill let you know what i used.

[@JimVarneyHaHa]

Lmao

[@saltymcpepper5777]

I'm attempting this tomorrow. Without this tool.🤞😳

[@karenliu529]

I have a Kenmore Sears washing machine (old school not fancy), and whenever I run it, a slow stream of water would leak from the door. This is only 7 years old and not used daily. I looked at the boot seal and it doesn't look worn to me... But could it be worn without looking worn? Is there other reasons a door would leak water? TIA

[@kimporcelli4211]

I have he same problem....Kenmore 7 years old...leaks from the front.

[@chocolatelabmom780]

Having the same problem here! Found the drain port hole thingy clogged with pet hair. Seems we have to clean it after EVERY LOAD - seems ridiculously sensitive. Purchased used (4 yrs old) and have had it hooked up for 2 months ... it replaced a THIRTY YEAR OLD KENMORE which was in rough shape - BUT STILL WORKED AND DIDN'T LEAK - WISH WE KEPT IT!!

[@Stoic_Zoomer]

@@chocolatelabmom780 I use a vacuum on the bitch and that seems to work

[@charleshayward2849]

where can I find a place to buy the pliers to remove the spring extension tool?

[@repairclinic]

Our website. Here's a link: www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Spring-Removal-Tool/383EER4001A/1268535?TLSID=1773

[@caregroup2827]

Helpful video even if you don't have the tool that makes it easy. Without the tools very difficult. Although the visual warnings are a nice touch they are not completely accurate. The top of the washer is not particularly sharp but the front panel is razor sharp and heavy. Cut two fingers and bled like a stuck pig. Be very careful and wear gloves when removing the front panel,

[@repairclinic]

+Care Group Thank you for the feedback.

[@victormelendez9762]

hello. Great video so professional. I have a question... Where can I buy the pliers you use to remove it?

[@repairclinic]

You can find it on our website: www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Spring-Removal-Tool/383EER4001A/1268535?TLSID=1773

[@charleshayward2849]

*****- I desperately need this tool to finish the installation of the door seal on my Kenmore Elite washing machine. The link above does not work. Where can I get one of these spring expanders? Thank you!

[@repairclinic]

Charles Hayward www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Spring-Removal-Tool/383EER4001A/1268535?TLSID=1773

[@stressdspook]

Awesome, only the spring expansion tool, which is called something else by LG, is $75. You better have it on hand before replacing this gasket. I waited two days and paid extra money for shipping while my washer sat torn down.

[@todda2026]

The front seal/spring are a PIA. Tool is too expensive & hard to find. Use two zip ties of each end of the spring. Use them to pull on the spring ends. Works well but does take some effort.

[@repairclinic]

SWO TAR Thank you for the input.

[@ryukaryonin]

Thank you. With Brute strength this worked perfectly

[@dallassuitt7343]

This worked great, not even all that much force needed with the zip ties!

[@Stoic_Zoomer]

Two pairs of kleins worked just as well tho I did have a helper

[@BingermanAlley]

I need to replace mine its covered in black mold but I can't take the top of the washer off. It's a stackable set and the dryer weighs a ton.

[@kimporcelli4211]

How do you repair this unit if your dryer is on top? Even sears repair people refused to fix it....help

[@kimporcelli4211]

You can clean the black mold with a cycle of vinegar or bleach. and run a rag through the edges

[@ronmecredy]

Looks like great instructions, now what is the cost difference between buying the tools, parts, & time and hiring somebody to do this - Probably about the same amount of time either way

[@repairclinic]

Ron Mecredy We get a lot of feedback on how we save people money so it is likely cheaper than hiring a technician. .

[@bobbyka1980]

I will be performing this repair today wish me luck.

[@repairclinic]

Bobby Kame Good luck, Bobby! Let us know how it goes.

[@bobbyka1980]

It went great thanks for your video I got this washer for free cause the owner couldn't find the leak I found it and replaced the door seal and works great again thank you thank you

[@repairclinic]

Bobby Kame Awesome! Congrats.

[@repairclinic]

There are definitely appliance technicians that could do this repair.

[@EverettValdez]

That spring takes more than one person if you don’t have that tool

[@hollistermeppen]

Is there a company or someone you can just pay to do this? There is no way I would be able to handle all of this, in the small area that I have while being pregnant. Just wondering if this is a typical repair enough that someone would be skilled to come and do it.

[@acoustic4037]

I'm just curious, why are so many people replacing the door seal?

[@repairclinic]

+acoustic4037 These boots can tear when the machine is overloaded.

[@robichaud911]

needle nose pliers work best for that darn wire thing... the friction of the boot against the wire will make it stay there...just grab that eye on top of the spring and reef it into place... use some lube where they say to use the lube and you will save 45 min of misery and a drill for all them screws save a lot of time, i had to do it twice in a month,, im a pro now

[@repairclinic]

rob911 Thank you for your input.

[@mikerinehart763]

It would be nice if you showed how to do it with the aforementioned flat head screwdriver rather than the outrageously exspensive one use tool.

[@repairclinic]

Mike Rinehart We appreciate your input. Thanks.

[@robichaud911]

Mike Rinehart needle nose pliers work best... the friction of the boot against the wire will make it stay there... just use a pair of pliers and reef on the eye so to expand the spring and latch it to the hook... I just changed that boot in 5 min flat..

[@soleary100]

The "spring expansion tool" does not exist according to Home Depot and B and B Ace Hardware in Los Angeles. Without it, it two people 2 hours of manipulating the spring into submission to get the gasket secured. DO NOT ATTEMPT THIS without some sort of spring expansion device! LG said they'd sell me one for $60, which was more than the gasket price. If you can't get the spring expander, call the handy man on this one!

[@SolderSoldier]

They skip over showing how they got the rubber boot back on. Trying to do it myself and it just keeps slipping off when I get about 2/3rds done. I think you really need 2 people for this job.

[@aartikumar6138]

Any tips?

[@Cd_Juarez817]

Bullcrap, my boot keeps sliding off when i put on the spring

[@potpie5417]

I consider myself pretty handy and not afraid of attempting a repair. Trust me on this, get a professional to do this one.

[@alohawg]

"The use if the spring expansion tool will make this easier." No shit

[@sgtluna413]

We

[@CPaull]

Thanks for the great video. Very helpful.