How to Replace a Motor Coupling on a Whirlpool Washing Machine

Direct drive washing machines use a motor coupler rather than a belt to spin the drum and operate the water pump. Knowing how to replace a motor coupling on a Whirlpool washing machine can save you money on expensive repair bills. You can purchase the motor coupler at most appliance repair shops. Take your model number with you so that you get the correct part.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Socket wrench set
• Mallet
• Motor coupler assembly

Instructions

1. Unplug the Whirlpool washing machine from the wall outlet. Turn off the water to the washing machine at the inside wall spigot.

2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that secure the front of the control panel to the top of the Whirlpool washer. Lift the front of the control panel up, and allow the unit to rest in the service position on its hinges.

3. Press in the plastic locking tab on the wiring harness connection in the rear center of the top panel. Separate the wire connector by pulling it up.

4. Use a flathead screwdriver to un-clip the rear panel from the top panel. Insert the screwdriver into the curve of the clip inside the top panel slot. Push the screwdriver handle toward the wall to pop the clip out of the top panel.

5. Open the lid of the Whirlpool washer, and grab between the tub and the cabinet. Tilt the front forward, and pull the cabinet away from the washer base.

6. Locate the water pump and motor assembly toward the center of the washer under the tub. Insert a screwdriver into the plastic tabs that connect the water pump to the motor. Squeeze the open end of the tabs with your finger while prying the tabs off. Move the water pump out of the way without removing the hoses connected to the water inlet and outlet ports.

7. Press in on the locking tab of the wiring harness connected to the motor. Pull the wiring harness apart to disconnect it from the motor. Insert a screwdriver between the plastic retaining clip and motor, and pry the clip off.

8. Use a socket wrench to remove the two screws that mount the motor to the gear case, starting with the bottom screw first. Lift the motor from the gear case and out of the washing machine.

9. Use a screwdriver to pry the coupler pieces from the gear case and the motor shaft. Use a socket and mallet to tap the motor coupler over the motor shaft and set the rubber seal into the gear case. Make sure that one of the holes on the rubber seal lines up in the 12 o'clock position.

10. Turn the motor to match the alignment in the rubber seal, and position the shaft into the gear case. Secure the motor using the attaching screws and reattaching the securing clips.

11. Reattach the water pump to the motor assembly using the two attaching clips. Reconnect the motor wiring harness by pressing it into place until the plastic tab engages.

12. Place the Whirlpool washing machine cabinet back on the washer base and secure it with the two retaining clips at the rear of the panel. Reconnect the door switch wiring harness, and set the control panel back into its operating position.

13. Secure the control panel by reattaching the securing screws. Plug the Whirlpool washing machine back into the wall outlet, and turn on the water supply.

Tips & Warnings

• Always disconnect appliances before attempting any repairs to them.

References

• Whirlpool Direct Drive Manual
• Motor Coupler