How to replace the shifter assembly in a top-load washer
This step-by-step washer repair guide explains how to replace the shifter—also called the actuator—in a top-load washer. Located on the bottom of the gear case, the shifter assembly's motor shifts the drive system between agitating and spinning. If the shifter malfunctions, the electronic control board shuts the washer off and displays an error code. The tech sheet attached to the back of the washer or inside the washer cabinet has a diagnostic test for the shifter. If the shifter is faulty, replace the shifter assembly with the manufacturer-approved washer part.
This repair procedure is for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag and Amana top-load washers. You also can use the same basic repair steps to replace the shifter assembly on some Samsung and LG top-load washers.
This video shows how to replace the shifter assembly in a top-load washer.
Instructions
- 01.
Shut off the electricity and water
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet.
Turn off the water supply valves for the washer. Wear work gloves to protect your hands.
Have someone help you move the washer away from the wall.
- 02.
Disconnect the hoses
Mark which fill hose goes to the hot connector and which goes to the cold.
Using channel lock pliers, carefully loosen and remove both fill hoses. Expect some water to pour out.
Pull the drain hose out of the standpipe behind the washer. Expect some water to pour out.
Tip: Wipe up water spills with a towel to prevent slipping.
PHOTO: Disconnect the hoses from the back of the washer.
- 03.
Carefully lay the washer on its front panel
Move the washer to an area where you can work on it.
Lay cardboard or towels in front of the washer to prevent scratching the front of the washer.
Carefully tilt the washer forward and lay it on the front panel so that you can access the drain pump from the bottom of the washer.
PHOTO: Lay the washer down on its front panel.
- 04.
Remove the shifter
Remove the bolts that secure the plastic cover over the motor and drive components.
Pull the plastic cover and set it aside.
Release the locking tabs on the wire harness connection and pull the wire harness out of the connector on the shifter.
Remove the 2 screws that attach the mode shifter to the base of the washer.
Pull the shifter off the washer base.
Note the position of the shifter peg.
PHOTO: Remove the bolts holding the plastic cover over the motor.
PHOTO: Remove the plastic motor cover.
PHOTO: Remove the wire harness from the shifter.
PHOTO: Remove the shifter mounting screws.
PHOTO: Remove the shifter from the washer.
- 05.
Install the new shifter
Position the shifter peg on the new shifter in the same place as the previous shifter.
Push the new shifter into place. Make sure the peg is properly inserted into the drive system linkage.
Reinstall the mounting screws and tighten them firmly.
Position the wire harness plug in the connector on the shifter and push it into place, making sure the locking tabs snap into place.
Position the plastic cover on top of the motor and drive components.
Line up the mounting holes and insert the mounting bolts.
Tighten the bolts firmly.
- 06.
Set the washer upright
Carefully set the washer upright position and move it close enough to the fill hoses that you can reconnect them.
- 07.
Reinstall the fill hoses
Thread the fill hoses onto the connections on the back of the washer.
Tighten the connections firmly using a pair of channel lock pliers.
- 08.
Restore the water and power
Turn on the water supply valves.
Tighten the connection if you find a slight leak. Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.
Return the washer to its original location.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your washers
Choose a symptom to see related washer repairs.
Main causes: clogged drain hose, house drain clogged, bad drain pump, water-level pressure switch failure, bad control b…
Main causes: worn agitator dogs, bad clutch, broken motor coupler, shifter assembly failure, broken door lock, suspensio…
Main causes: bad lid switch or door lock, bad timer or electronic control board, wiring failure, bad water inlet valve a…
Main causes: broken lid switch or lid lock, bad pressure switch, broken shifter assembly, faulty control system…
Main causes: unbalanced load, loose spanner nut, worn drive block, broken shock absorber or suspension spring, debris in…
Main causes: no water supply, bad water valves, water-level pressure switch failure, control system failure, bad door lo…
Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, bad power cord, electronic control board failure, bad user interf…
Main causes: leaky water inlet valve, faulty water-level pressure switch, bad electronic control board…
Main causes: water heater failure, bad water temperature switch, faulty control board, bad water valve, faulty water tem…
Repair guides for top-load washers
How to replace the motor coupler on a top-load washer
If the washer drains but won’t agitate or spin, the motor coupler might have broken to protect the drive motor from dama…
How to replace the agitator dogs in a top-load washer
If the top of the agitator moves both ways instead of just one, replace the agitator dogs, using the steps in this repai…
How to replace the drive block on a top-load washer
The drive block rotates the spin basket. If the basket wobbles or rattles in the spin mode because the drive block is wo…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your washers
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your washer.
Find tips for using your washing machine efficiently to save energy and help reduce utility bills.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…
Learn how to repair broken, frayed or damaged wires in your appliances.…