Drive System

• The shifter mechanism works at several points during the wash cycle, including the beginning and end of the agitation cycle. This may create a scraping sound while the mechanism is engaging or disengaging. While the sound should be temporary and fairly quiet, service may be needed if the sound is loud or grating, indicating that there is a problem with the drive system.
  
  

Spin Cycle

• When the washing machine is in the spin cycle, the motor turns on and ramps up then slows down and stops. This creates noise that may sound like a whining or scraping sound. Again, while the noise should be quiet and only last a minute or two, the motor might need to be serviced if the scraping sound is very loud.
  
  

Foreign Objects

• Look inside the washer for any small, hard items that might have fallen out of a pocket during the wash, such as coins or keys. Remove the items. If a foreign object has gotten caught between the washer tub and the housing, it may also create a loud scraping noise. Disconnect power to the GE washing machine and look inside the washer tub and housing with a flashlight. Remove any visible objects. Note that a common source for a scraping sound is the wire from a bra that comes loose and gets caught in the drum. It may be necessary to remove the front access panel to find the object or the bra wire inside the housing.
  
  

Repair

• If the source of the noise cannot be determined and standard troubleshooting does not resolve the problem, it might be time for a service call. When the motor, drive pulley or glides get worn out or damaged, they can make a lot of noise, indicating that repair is necessary.