How to Repair a Kenmore Top Loading Washing Machine That Is Spinning Slow

A spinning washing machine keeps clothes clearner.

Repairing a Kenmore top loading washing machine that is spinning slow requires you to replace the couplers, which are the components acting as buffers between the motor and gear case to make the spinning motion for the agitator. The wear and tear of the washing machine couplers happens with use and age.

Things You'll Need

• Hammer
• New couplers
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Grease (optional)

Instructions

1. Unplug the washing machine from the outlet. Turn off the water via the spigot at the wall in a clockwise motion. Pull the washing machine away from the wall, providing working space.

2. Locate the Phillips-head screws typically found on the top of the washing machine securing the control console. Remove the screws by turning counterclockwise with a Phillips-head screwdriver. Lift the control console up until it rests on the hinges.

3. Find the large connector block with the wires toward the center rear top, and proceed to disconnect the wires with your fingers.

4. Identify the retaining clips at the top of the washing machine cabinet that connect to the rear panel. Place a flathead screwdriver into the first notch, and push back toward the console to pop the clips out. Grab the side of the cabinet, and pull it away from the washing machine.

5. Look below the basket of the washing machine, and find the motor and water pump. Remove the two retainer clips found on the pump that is connected to the motor, and shift the pump to the side to avoid having to disconnect the hoses.

6. Locate the screw found in the retaining clip at the top of the motor. Remove the screw with a Phillips-head screwdriver in a counterclockwise motion, and remove the clip. Repeat this for the bottom clip by tilting it in a downward motion.

7. Disconnect the wiring harness found on the motor with your fingers. Pull the motor away from the coupler gently to avoid damage, and place it to the side. You may have to use your flathead screwdriver to remove the motor away from the gear case.

8. Remove the coupler set off the gear case. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to remove the coupler. Discard the coupler.

9. Pick up the new coupler set. The center piece is round with holes. Attach one of the three-pronged pegs to the back of the center round piece gently, using a hammer. Repeat this with the second three-pronged peg on the other side.

10. Reattach the coupler to the gear case by aligning it in a 12 o'clock position.

11. Pick up the motor, and put it back into place on the new coupler. Hold the motor in position, and reattach the top retaining clip. Insert the screw into the retaining clip, and in a clockwise motion, reattach the screw. Repeat this for the bottom retaining clip. Reconnect the wiring harness.

12. Pick up the water pump, and reattach it to the motor with the retaining clips.

13. Put the cabinet of the washing machine into place, and put it back into position. Reattach the retaining clips at the top of the washing machine cabinet. Slide the flat part of the retaining clip into the control console and, with the flathead screwdriver, pop it into the first notch.

14. Reconnect the wires, and roll the control console forward. Reattach the screws found on top of the washing machine in a clockwise motion.

15. Push the washing machine back into place. Turn on the water in a counterclockwise motion at the spigot. Plug the washing machine back into the electrical outlet.

Tips & Warnings

• You can lightly grease the motor shaft before putting the pump back on the coupler.

• Make sure the appliance is unplugged.

• Never work around the appliance when there is water.

References

• Dave's Repair: How to Replace the Direct Drive Coupler