Clothes Washer Problems

[Ryan Berger]

I have a Whirlpool washer, pretty basic model. The darn thing will not go into spin cycle anymore.... any simple fixes?

[sparcebag]

Does it agitate in wash/rinse mode? If not its a part between the motor & trans.

If it agitates in wash/rinse and does not spin,Its switch/timer problem.

[Surface Tension]

I'd guess something like the switch. That would be the switch activated by the lid. Open the lid and it'll stop the spins cycle.

[Ryan Berger]

thanks guys I will have to check that out next time I crutch downstairs...

[BJB]

I'd just add that the lid switch would be the easiest. If not then on the back or inside of the machine there should be wiring diagram. Look for the timer switch on itand if you think it is something you would try to replace test it. The way I've done it is UNPLUG the machine and using a multimeter (they cost around $15) in the resistance mode cycle the timer switch by hand and see how the different washing machine cycles effect the meter. If the switch is bad you have already done the hard part, call for prices, and decide if it is worth it. If it is in the tranny....I'd [YouNeedAuthorization] for a newer machine.

[Juneau4]

Is the motor running in the spin cycle? If it is you may just have a shear pin thats broke. The machine will work otherwise but in spin the bottom pulley on the motor won't turn it just slips. Take the pulley off if I remember right its just a clip that holds it on. Usually there will be metal filings present that you can see once you open the back of the machine -good luck.

[sparcebag]

Hey juneau4 those ringer style washers are out of style now a days.no more pullies & belts.

[Juneau4]

Hey juneau4 those ringer style washers are out of style now a days.no more pullies & belts.

Sparcebag at least mine has an electric motor on it and not a kick start gasoline!

[Ryan Berger]

Is the motor running in the spin cycle? If it is you may just have a shear pin thats broke. The machine will work otherwise but in spin the bottom pulley on the motor won't turn it just slips. Take the pulley off if I remember right its just a clip that holds it on. Usually there will be metal filings present that you can see once you open the back of the machine -good luck.

The motor is runnin it just cannot seem to get going. When I first noticed it it would just take it a bit to get going, not spinning at all now..

[Ryan Berger]

I'd just add that the lid switch would be the easiest. If not then on the back or inside of the machine there should be wiring diagram. Look for the timer switch on itand if you think it is something you would try to replace test it. The way I've done it is UNPLUG the machine and using a multimeter (they cost around $15) in the resistance mode cycle the timer switch by hand and see how the different washing machine cycles effect the meter. If the switch is bad you have already done the hard part, call for prices, and decide if it is worth it. If it is in the tranny....I'd [YouNeedAuthorization] for a newer machine.

I will have to bring my tool bag in tomarrow and check things out. Actually I suppose I should be bringing it in every night in this cold weather with all the meters in there..

[sparcebag]

Pull the cabinet off to expose the motor,there are 2 clips on the water pump unsnap them & remove the water pump.the motor should have 2 screws holding 2 clips in place,remove the screws & clips. now remove the motor,you'll find a plastic 4 prong part that may not resemble 4 prongs cause its worn out.It transfers torque from the motor to the transmission,and in turn turns the agitater.its a cheap part and easy to replace.

Its called a coupling and I believe most are the same for each brand name.

[Tom7227]

Maybe something as simple as a slipping belt? If it worked a bit was slow then the prong jobberdo wouldn't seem to be the problem would it?

Whatever you do try and get your parts from someone that can help you make sure you're getting the right stuff. I try and write down every number I can find on an appliance and then take a digital picture of what I think is kaflooey. You might be surprised of the difference between the 1416X and the 1416Z, or whatever little foolishness the company did to drive you nuts. I just about went nuts trying to buy a new door gasket off the internet and the local parts guy had to call his suplier to make sure i got the right one.

[Tom7227]

Ok, so what's the solution been? YOu can't ask for all this advice and then not tell us what worked. I would bet that Sparc is on the right track. He usually is when he gives advice.

[Ryan Berger]

Sorry, have not been able to get my tool bag out of the truck.. it is around 40lbs and I am on crutches. I will have a friend carry it downstairs tonight and I can work on it tomorrow.

Thanks for the advice so far I will try and post pics of what I find!!

[sparcebag]

Ok, so what's the solution been? YOu can't ask for all this advice and then not tell us what worked. I would bet that Sparc is on the right track. He usually is when he gives advice.

Thanks Tom! You make me feel all mushie

[Tom7227]

You don't need the whole box - a couple of screwdrivers, maybe the 1/4 inch socket set, a pliers. You must have an awful big pile of dirty drawers by now dude, you better get going. You aren't going to be able to haul stuff to the laundromat while you're on sticks.

[ikatcher]

sparce is correct,that is the prob 9 out of ten times

[Ryan Berger]

You don't need the whole box - a couple of screwdrivers, maybe the 1/4 inch socket set, a pliers. You must have an awful big pile of dirty drawers by now dude, you better get going. You aren't going to be able to haul stuff to the laundromat while you're on sticks.

Its only been broke for a week,, going to dig into it today,, and I have way more than a weeks worth of drawers.. more like a month,,

[Ryan Berger]

Ok I opened it up and here is what I found.

The last time I had trouble witht the washer it was not turning heavy loads. I took the spring in this pic and moved it to the right out of the hole and just clipped it on the edge of the bracket. Doing that fixed the problem temporarly..

[bearslayer]

It looks like you probably just have a bad belt. That is an Amana washer, not Whirlpool. You have to pull the motor assembly out, as the belt is routed between the pump and motor. Then pull pump off of motor, just watch how it mounts in relation to where the belt goes. There are 4 bolts that mount assembly to base, 1/2" bolts. Good Luck

[ikatcher]

it does not look like a whirlpool to me either. if it is it is really old.

[Ryan Berger]

Thanks guys,, your right it is an Amana, Amana Distinctive..