How to Replace a Washing Machine Transmission

Many late model washing machines use a direct-drive system to agitate and spin. They don't use belts or pressure wheels to transfer power and motion from the motor to the transmission. The motor is coupled directly to the transmission. If the motor is running and there is no agitation or spinning of the tub, the culprit is usually a plastic coupling between the motor and transmission or the transmission itself.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips screw driver
• Flat screw driver
• Work gloves

1. Disconnect the washing machine from its electrical source. You don't need to disconnect the water or drain lines, although you can if it makes access easier.

2. Remove two Phillips screws in each corner below the front control panel and pull the control console towards you then flip it up and back. Unplug the wire harness and use a flat-blade screwdriver to push back on the spring clips popping them out.

3. Lift the lid, tilt the cabinet towards you and slide it out and away from the machine. Beneath the agitator cap should be a bolt or screw covered by a plastic cover. Remove this bolt and lift out the agitator revealing the transmission drive shaft.

4. Take out the pump by releasing two spring clips holding it in place and move it to the side revealing two more spring clips screwed to the motor. You do not have to remove the hoses. Remove the two screws on the spring clips.

5. Use the flat screwdriver and remove the bottom clip first. Place a hand under the motor to keep if from falling, release the top clip allowing the motor and coupling to come away from the transmission assembly.

6. Release the transmission from the frame by removing the two bolts holding them in place. Tilt the machine back and slowly slide the unit out from the bottom paying close attention to any washers that may be in place.

7. Install and secure the new transmission unit in the reverse order of its removal. Make sure you put back any washers previously removed. Reinstall the coupling, motor, pump, cabinet and control panel in the reverse order of their removal.

Tips & Warnings

• If there was any black-rubber residue or white plastic bits beneath the motor/coupling, this may be a sign that the coupling was either broken or failing as well. While you have everything open and accessible, replacing the coupling may be a wise move.
• Make sure to fully unplug the unit from its electrical source, failure to do so could result in serious electrical shock or death.
• The metal cabinet and other parts are very sharp, and cause injury as well. Wear work gloves to reduce the risk of cuts when removing the cabinet or handling sharp edges.

Resources

• Samurai appliance repair help.
• Repair help for home appliances.