June 01, 2013

How to replace a trash compactor motor centrifugal switch

This DIY repair guide shows how to replace the motor centrifugal switch on a trash compactor. The motor centrifugal switch controls the direction of the drive motor, which moves the ram up and down to compact trash. If the switch breaks, the ram travels down but won't move back up. Replace a broken motor centrifugal switch with the manufacturer-approved trash compactor part.

Use these steps to replace the motor centrifugal switch on Kenmore, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Gladiator, JennAir and Maytag trash compactors.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

Nut driver set

Phillips screwdriver

Pliers

Work gloves

Cardboard

Repair difficulty

Time required

45 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Pull the trash compactor out of the counter
Lay cardboard in front of the trash compactor to protect the floor, then remove the mounting screws that secure the trash compactor in the counter.
Pull the trash compactor out of the counter.
Tip: Use your installation manual as a guide for this step.
02.
Disconnect electrical power
Unplug the trash compactor or shut off the house circuit breaker.
03.
Remove the motor cover
Remove the screws in the back motor cover panel.
Remove the back motor cover panel and set it aside.
Remove the screws from the base of the motor cover.
Remove the screw on the side wire harness cover.
Pull the motor cover off and set it aside.
PHOTO: Remove the back motor cover screws.
PHOTO: Remove the back motor panel.
PHOTO: Remove the motor housing base screws.
PHOTO: Remove the wire harness cover screw.
PHOTO: Pull off the motor housing cover.
04.
Remove the motor centrifugal switch
Note the location of wires connected to the motor centrifugal switch. The wire colors are typically marked on the switch. Take a digital photo of the wire locations if necessary to document their location.
Remove the wires from the motor centrifugal switch.
Remove the mounting screws from the motor centrifugal switch and pull it off of the motor.
PHOTO: Remove the wires.
PHOTO: Remove the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Remove the centrifugal switch.
05.
Install the new motor centrifugal switch
Connect the wires to the new motor centrifugal switch using the markings on the switch or your digital photo as a guide.
Position the motor centrifugal switch on the motor and secure it with the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Install the new centrifugal switch.
PHOTO: Connect the centrifugal switch wires.
06.
Reinstall the motor cover
Position the motor cover over the motor and secure it with the mounting screws.
Reinstall the screw on the side wire harness cover.
Reinstall the back motor cover panel and secure it with the mounting screws.
PHOTO: Reinstall the motor cover.
07.
Restore power
Plug the trash compactor back in or reset the house circuit breaker.
08.
Reinstall the trash compactor in the counter
Slide the trash compactor into the counter opening and replace the mounting screws.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.