Washer Broke

[PALefty]

Bad timing on having my washer break.. as I have to go out of town tomorrow for a few days. I had a bunch of loads to do.

Anyway, it appears the motor coupling broke. It is a Whirlpool but for the life of me I can't find a model # (Heavy Duty /Super Capacity/7 Cycle-2 Speed).

The Whirlpool website seems useless... but I did find some info on a few other sites. While this doesn't match my coupling exactly, both claim that it will replace all older models. Anybody have any experience with the newer coupling? How much do I have to take apart to put this in place?


linky

Direct Drive Coupling - newly redesigned
This direct drive coupling fits between the motor and the transmission of your washing machine. This is a newly redesigned motor coupling and it replaces all of the older styles of couplings. Use it for your direct drive washing machine that doesn't use a belt.
PartSelect #: PS334626

linky2

Motor coupling - Located between motor and transmission. Replaces all previous versions. Fits ALL Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper and KitchenAid direct drive washers (no belt).
Part Number: AP3136256
made by WHIRLPOOL

[LCHIEN]

Bad timing on having my washer break.. as I have to go out of town tomorrow for a few days. I had a bunch of loads to do.

Anyway, it appears the motor coupling broke. It is a Whirlpool but for the life of me I can't find a model # (Heavy Duty /Super Capacity/7 Cycle-2 Speed).

The Whirlpool website seems useless... but I did find some info on a few other sites. While this doesn't match my coupling exactly, both claim that it will replace all older models. Anybody have any experience with the newer coupling? How much do I have to take apart to put this in place?


linky

Direct Drive Coupling - newly redesigned
This direct drive coupling fits between the motor and the transmission of your washing machine. This is a newly redesigned motor coupling and it replaces all of the older styles of couplings. Use it for your direct drive washing machine that doesn't use a belt.
PartSelect #: PS334626

linky2

Motor coupling - Located between motor and transmission. Replaces all previous versions. Fits ALL Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper and KitchenAid direct drive washers (no belt).
Part Number: AP3136256
made by WHIRLPOOL

So did the coupling break from old age and wear or is the coupling really
a mechanical fuse in disguise, rated to break when something else jams up and it protects the motor from burnout?

I don't really know much about servicing washers and driers (I own a 27-y.o. Maytag ) but I do know engineering.

Maybe one of the regulars who knows servicing these machines will chime in.

[PALefty]

So did the coupling break from old age and wear or is the coupling really
a mechanical fuse in disguise, rated to break when something else jams up and it protects the motor from burnout?

I would say wear. It is a rubber coupling between to hard plastic pieces. There was some fine rubber dust near where the coupling had been and part of it is certainly broken. While it is not a new washer... it certainly isn't old.
Perhaps their redisgned model that seems to be the only one available will last longer.

Just got back from the laundrymat. 1.75/load. What a fun place too....

[dlminehart]

There should be a model number on a small plate on the back of the control panel, under the lid, or on the lower-front or side of the main cabinet body, assuming a traditional topload washer. I've had good experiences ordering parts from http://www.repairclinic.com . Fast shipping, good prices, helpful and quick response to email request for assistance.

[PALefty]

There should be a model number on a small plate on the back of the control panel, under the lid, or on the lower-front or side of the main cabinet body, assuming a traditional topload washer. I've had good experiences ordering parts from http://www.repairclinic.com . Fast shipping, good prices, helpful and quick response to email request for assistance.

I checked all those places except one of the sides. It is strange. Maybe I will see it tomorrow after I sleep on it...

[PALefty]

I found a bunch of good sites that descibe the process. It looks pretty simple. I guess I should check the Agitator Dogs too before I place a parts order...


linky1
linky2
linky3
linky4