How to Determine if the Motor Coupler is Broken in your Washing Machine

Last Updated: February 25, 2021

Are your clothes coming out wet at the end of the spin cycle? Follow these instructions to find out if you have a broken motor coupler in your Whirlpool or Kenmore washing machine.

Steps

1
Set the timer dial in the regular wash cycle. If the washer fills to the selected level and starts agitating properly, then the problem is not a broken motor coupler.^{[1]
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2
If the washer fills to the selected level and you hear the motor running but the washer is not agitating, set the dial on the spin cycle. If the washer drains the water and you hear the motor running (making noise but not spinning), it is likely you have a broken motor coupler.^{[2]
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3
If you replace the motor coupler yourself it probably will cost you about $20.^{[3]
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4
If you have to have a repairman come to your house and do the repair for you, it could cost you about US$120.^{[4]
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5
Remove bolt from agitator from inside washing machine tub.
6
Remove the 3 silver bolts from under the washing machine tub underneath the washer. Make sure you unplug the wiring assembly from the drive.^{[5]
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7
After you remove the 3 bolts , the motor will fall out.
8
Remove the 2 metal screw from the clips holding assembly together.^{[6]
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9
When you remove screws the coupler will be the 2 plastic pieces with 3 prongs and a rubber coupling.^{[7]
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10
Replace and reverse instructions to put all back together.

Community Q&A

Question

My GE washer spins but clothes are still wet - what can it be?

Community Answer

Does it sound as loud as it normally does? If it doesn't, it can be either a bad motor coupler or bad control board.
Question

Washer is agitating but tub is not spinning. What should I do?

Community Answer

Get an appliance repairman. It could be as cheap as your lid switch or it could be most of the way to a new washer if your motor, transmission or clutch are dying.
Question

My GE Washing Machine does not spin. The belt seems okay. What else could have happened?

Community Answer

It could be as cheap as your Lid Switch or it could be most that your motor, transmission or clutch are dying.

Warnings

Make sure that you disconnect your washing machine from the wall outlet before attempting to do any repairs. Electricity is dangerous, but if you treat it with respect and follow the safety instructions, you will be OK.

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