How to Replace a Whirlpool Washer Motor Coupling

Whirlpool washing machines are either available as belt-driven or direct drive models. A direct drive model uses a coupling on the motor to spin the agitator, which moves the clothes during the wash cycle. If the coupling is broken, the agitator will not spin and the clothes will not be properly washed. To change the motor coupling, you must first remove the drain pump and motor, located below the wash tub on your Whirlpool washing machine.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Unplug the washing machine from the wall outlet.

2. Remove the screws at the base of the control panel. Depending on model, the screws are located on the front or back of the control panel.

3. Lift the control panel and rotate it up and out of the way.

4. Unclip the control panel wire harness from the top of the washing machine.

5. Unclip the two spring clips on the rear of the top panel with a screwdriver to release the panel.

6. Tilt the entire washing machine cabinet toward you. Slide the cabinet slightly forward, then remove from the washing machine.

7. Release the two retainer clips securing the pump to the motor using a screwdriver, then rock the pump back and forth to release from the motor.

8. Unclip the wire harness on the right side of the motor, then remove the screws from the motor clips.

9. Remove the bottom motor clip with a screwdriver, then place your hand under the motor and unclip the top clip. Remove the motor from the washing machine.

10. Remove the three plastic pieces to the old drive coupler from the back of the motor. If necessary, pry the coupler off using a flat-head screwdriver.

11. Place one of the new coupler cogs onto the gear-case drive shaft as far as it will go. If necessary, turn a screwdriver around and use a hammer to knock the cog into place.

12. Slide the new isolator onto the cog so that the prongs are inserted into three of the holes on the isolator.

13. Place the second cog onto the motor shaft with the prongs facing away from the motor. Tap the cog into place using the screwdriver's handle and a hammer.

14. Align the prongs on the cog on the motor with the holes on the isolator on the rear of the dryer, and slide the prongs into the isolator.

15. Reinstall the motor retainer clips and secure the motor in place using the screws that were removed.

16. Reconnect the wire harness, then slide the pump back onto the motor shaft. Secure the pump using the clips that were removed.

17. Reinstall the washer cabinet. To reinstall, align the bottom front edge under the base frame and then lower the cabinet into place. Ensure that the notches on each side of the cabinet are aligned with the tabs on each side of the frame.

18. Reinstall the spring clips and reconnect the control panel wire harness.

19. Lower the control panel back into position, then secure using the screws that were removed.

20. Restore power to the washer to complete the installation.

References

• Repair Clinic: Washing Machine Drive Motor Coupler Replacement