The Virtual Repairman's Appliance Help

[Mark Smith]

I have a Whirlpool washer, model: LST9355DQO.

Late last week the washer stopped agitating and spinning. Washer pumped in water and pumped out water ok. I discovered drive coupling was destroyed. I replaced it easily and washer worked fine...for three days. Washer can still pump water in and out without any problem but agitation and spin cycle do not work.

I have removed the outside cabinet and jumpered the lid switch connector to observe what happens. I can start and complete a fill process to the desired water level but neither agitation nor spinning take place. With timer in OFF position the machine unplugged, the lower portion of the agitator does not spin freely. Should it spin freely? If I place my hand insde the basket I am unable to spin the basket/tub. I have also removed the agitator. Cam dogs inside top portion of the agitator seem ok. I can spin top portion of the agitator clockwise but cam dogs roll out and prevent the counter clockwise spin, as expected.

The timer was replaced a year ago. I am suspecting a problem with the brake/clutch assembly or gearcase? What are your thoughts on this problem?

Your feedback is appreciated. I just joined the membership and look forward to your help.

[Virtual Repairman]

Hi Mark;

The only thing that you have not mentioned is whether the machine makes noise like it is running when it is supposed to agitate and spin. If it is making the motor sounds, but no agitation nor spin, I would conclude the gearcase and basket drive need to be replaced. A rather daunting project without the special tools needed to pull the spin basket, etc.

If no motor sounds at all, suspect the timer or the motor. Only a further check with the voltmeter can determine which it is.

[Mark Smith]

Thank you for the quick response!

The motor does indeed run when the machine should be agitating or spinning. The motor runs and sounds as though it is not engaged and when I pull the timer button to stop the motor from running it spins down and stops, not the usual sound as if a brake has activated to stop the basket.

You say the task to repair is daunting. What is involved?

Thanks again for your quick response.

Mark Smith

[Virtual Repairman]

It indeed sounds like a new gearcase and basket drive is in order. When I use the term 'daunting", I mean that removing and installing a transmission is usually intimidating to a lay person due to the depth of the repair. As far as special tools, the only one required will be to remove the tub spanner nut when pulling the spin basket. I strongly recommend the Whirlpoool/Kenmore Direct drive washer manual to assist with this repair, as it show some great diagrams & pics of the whole process. Our parts distributors can help you purchase the spanner tool and gearcase at 800-507-4040. If they don't have the repair manuals, you can get one from our website.

[Mark Smith]

Thank you again for your quick response. I will price replacement gearcase and basket drive at my local appliance parts supply and decide if further repair or a new washer is in order. If I choose to repair I'll make sure to buy the repair manual as you suggest.

Thanks again for your help.