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HomeRepair HelpUniversal Washer RepairUniversal Washer won't agitate Repair
Universal Washer won't agitate
If your washer won't agitate, the agitator repair kit is the most likely cause. Worn, stripped, or damaged agitator components can prevent the agitator from moving even though the washer motor and transmission are running. A worn drive block or bell is another common reason for a washer not agitating because it cannot transfer the transmission's back-and-forth motion to the agitator. Next, check the lid switch assembly and make sure the lid is fully closed. On many top-load machines, a failed lid switch or an obstructed lid strike prevents the washer from agitating or spinning. If the lid switch has no continuity when closed, replace it. A broken motor coupling, often caused by overloading or normal wear, can also stop the washer agitator from working. Finally, inspect the drive belt for damage or looseness. These repairs apply to Universal washing machines, but part designs vary by model. Enter your model number to find the exact agitator repair kit, drive block, lid switch assembly, motor coupling, or drive belt for your specific washing machine.
01 - Universal Washing Machine Agitator Repair Kit
If the washer won't agitate, replacing the agitator repair kit may solve the problem. The kit contains the agitator components that are most likely to wear out and/or fail. If any of the parts are worn out, stripped, or damaged, replace the kit.
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02 - Universal Washing Machine Drive Block or Bell
The drive block connects the washer transmission to the agitator. If the drive block is worn out, the transmission shaft will still move back and forth, but the agitator will only move slightly or will not move at all. Inspect the drive block for damage. If the drive block is worn out, stripped, or damaged, replace it.
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03 - Universal Washing Machine Lid Switch Assembly
On some models the lid switch assembly prevents the washer from both spinning and agitating when the lid is open. If the lid switch assembly fails, the washer will not spin or agitate. To determine if the lid switch assembly is defective, use a multimeter to test the lid switch for continuity. If the lid switch does not have continuity when the lid is closed, replace it.
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04 - Lid Not Fully Closed
On most top load machines the washer will not agitate or spin without the lid being fully closed. Close the lid after loading the washer and ensure there are no obstructions preventing the lid strike from connecting to the lid switch or latch.
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05 - Universal Washing Machine Motor Coupling
The motor coupling connects the motor to the washer transmission. If the washer is overloaded, the motor coupling will fail in order to protect both the motor and transmission. The motor coupling can also fail due to normal wear. Inspect the motor coupling to determine if it is broken. If the motor coupling is broken, replace it.
Highly Likely
06 - Universal Washing Machine Drive Belt
Inspect the drive belt to determine if it is broken or if it is loose on the pulleys. If the drive belt is broken or loose, replace it.
Highly Likely
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won't my washer agitate?
Why won't my washer agitate or spin?
How do I know if the agitator repair kit or drive block is bad?
What should I check if the washer motor runs but the agitator does not move?
How do I find the correct replacement part for my Universal washer?
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