|
Caution:
Please read our safety
information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Before removing the agitator, unplug the
washer to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
The agitator's movement back and
forth is important for the cleaning of your laundry. If it doesn't
function properly, your clothes won't be as clean as possible.
If your agitator does not move, moves only in one direction or
its movement is very weak, you will probably need to remove the
agitator. Furthermore, in order to inspect the tub for
leaks, the clutch assembly, the splines, or to remove the spin
drum, you will have to remove the agitator.
The agitator is fastened to the agitator
shaft and its movement is driven either by splines or a simple clutch assembly. The splines
are usually plastic or rubber nubs on a cylinder that fits over the agitator
shaft. If the nubs wear down, the shaft will not turn
properly or it will turn weakly. If the agitator is moving in
only one direction, the likely cause is the clutch assembly. The
clutch has dogs that depress and pop up with each turn. If those
dogs are worn, they will not engage properly and the agitator
will turn only in one direction.
Various makes and models differ in how the
agitator is removed. In some newer models, the agitator just lifts
straight up and out. However, in most models you will have to
do some combination of the following steps. First remove the fabric
softener dispenser, if any. It should either lift or screw off.
Next remove the cap. It may lift off, screw off or failing that,
it may need to be pried off.
Beneath the cap some agitators are secured in
place by a bolt. Use a socket wrench with an extension to remove
that bolt. Some Maytags may have a screw near to the bottom of
the agitator post that must be removed. Now try to lift the agitator
straight up, possibly with a little back and forth rocking motion.
Use caution when pulling, the agitator may come loose suddenly
and hit you in the face or send you flying backward.
If the agitator is particularly stubborn, you
can loop some rope under one side of the agitator at the bottom
and then up over a broom handle. Now loop it again under the other
side of the agitator and back up to the broom. Brace one end of
the broom handle against the top of the washer and lift up on
the other end. Double check that you have removed anything that
may be securing the agitator in place. Do not use too much force
or you may damage the washer cabinet, agitator or
injure yourself.
Click
here to order replacement parts.
|
