Can you break a washing machine by overloading?

[Pekka]

I think I have overloaded the washing machine once again, and it's making a racket! Why do I never learn? How can I check for damage, does anyone here know anything about washing machines? I have checked the handbook, but it is of no help, as the machine still works. I just want to know if I have damaged the machine, how do I check for the damages?

Unlikely to be totally broken. Overloading knackers the bearings faster & an uneven load may lead to uneven spinning & walking around a bit (probably most of the noise you hear).

After it finishes, You need to get a spirit level out & check that it's all even again & exactly where it's supposed to be. If not level, there are adjustments you can make to each leg to get it just perfect again.

In future when loading, they say you should always make sure you can freely move your hand around (held vertically) at the top of the drum, then it's very unlikely to be overloaded. hth.