How Can I Tell If My Transmission Is Bad on My Kenmore Washing Machine?

Repairing the transmission in a washing machine is cost- and time-consuming.

Defective washing machine transmissions affect the transition between cycles. The problems can be caused by broken or worn drive belts or by defects in the transmission itself. Use more than one person for moving the washing machine to begin diagnosing problems with the transmission. Such things as the cost of replacing the defective parts and the age of the washing machine should be considered when determining whether to repair it or purchase a new one.

Instructions

1. Turn off the hot and cold faucets behind the washing machine. Disconnect the fill hoses from the faucets. Disconnect the drain line from the drain pipe. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.

2. Move the washer from the wall or laundry closet area. Turn the washer over flat on its back. Use two or more people to move the washing machine and turn it on its back.

3. Find the drive belt, which is attached to a pulley and to a motor, underneath the washer. The belt may fall to the floor if it is broken. Replace the belt if broken. If it isn't broken, inspect it for signs of wear, including notches or cracks along its surface..

4. Move the washer back into place. Reconnect the drain line, fill hoses and electrical power. Fill the washer with water using the lowest water level setting. Select the wash cycle you normally use.

5. Listen for the sound of the agitator moving inside the washer drum. Move the cycle selector to the first spin cycle. Wait for the spin cycle to finish. Move the cycle selector to another wash position and fill the washing machine with water. Listen again for the sound of the agitator moving the water. If the agitator doesn't move the water but you can hear the motor moving, the transmission may be bad.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider the age of the washing machine. Replacing the transmission is quite costly and time consuming. If it is over 10 years old, consider purchasing a new one rather than replacing the transmission, or any other defective parts.

References

• Acme How To: Washer Troubleshooting Tips
• Repair Clinic: Washing Machine Troubleshooting