Kenmore HD Elite Top Load Washer

[sunnybono]

I have a 9 year old HD denmore Elite Top Load washer (sorry can't find the model number).  Recently I noticed that the agitator (mover) was not rotating.  Thus I wanted to replace the Dogs.  However one little problem, after reading till my eyes bled, when I removed the Fabric softner reservoir and the cap just underneath it, every diagram tells me to use a socket or nut driver to remove the bolt and lift up the agitator.  Unfortunately I don't see a nut.  I do see a round piece of plastic with a square centre and further below I do see something that is made of metal but with a smooth surface.
I'm hoping that the nut didn't break off, if it did, it didn't show up in the sealed area and this is the first time the washer has been opened!!

Please help.  Am I missing something???

sk

Model 110.20956991

[Repair-man]

Yep, you are hopelessly non-mechanical 

That square hole fits your 1/2" socket extension perfectly.

Demo

[sunnybono]

I tried the 1/2" socket extension that I took from my ratchet set and its too small.  The square hole is bigger.  The only thing I can think of is my socket extension is not 1/2", which I'm sure it pretty is. 

sk

[Repair-man]

Well I'm pretty sure you're stuck then, cause that plug is a 1/2" square hole. Maybe your Canadian 1/2" is not like ours

If all else fails, measure it.

[sunnybono]

if thats the case, do I just unscrew it like a normal screw.

sk

[Repair-man]

Yes, it is merely a threaded plug. Use a dab of vaseline on the threads upon re-assembly to ensure an easy removal in the future.

[sunnybono]

good idea.

Thanx. 

I'll keep you posted as to what transpires!!!  Thanx for all your help so far.  Once I replace the dogs, then I'm going to tackle the Motor Coupling which also broke into pieces the same time.

sk

[sunnybono]

By the way, if it helps, I finally found the model number 110.20956991 made by Whirlpool.

[sunnybono]

I went to HD today to see what a 1/2" socket extension looks like, and I guess you were right.  The Husky set that I have at home must be 3/8" and that's why it wouldn't work.  I'mgoing to borrow a set from my mechanic today and try it out.

sk

[AJ]

I updated first post to include the model number.

[sunnybono]

Thanx AJ for your help.  You were absolutely correct.  I borrowed the 1/2" rachet extension and the nut came out with such ease.  I took me approx. 1 minute to replace the dogs and reassemble the whole thing!!!

Now just waiting for the wife to show up from work so that we can tackle the Motor Coupling. 

Any tips or advice you may want to fire away b4 we begin, would be appreciated!!!!!

sk

[AJ]

Here is our motor coupler guide.

http://appliancejunk.com/motorcoupler.pdf

[Repair-man]

AJ for all the help??

What am I , chopped liver?? 

Good luck...

[sunnybono]

Sorry Repair-man, i goofed again.  I should have been thanking you.  Since I got your attention and you've been agreat help, according to the instructions on how to fix the motor coupling, is it really necessary to remove the shell or can I just tip the unit over and fix it that way??  If so, which way should I tip it???

sk

[Repair-man]

I'd like to tell you it's OK to tip it and do the repair, but there's a good reason it's better to remove the cabinet. For one thing, you have to remove the pump, then the motor in order to replace the coupling. Trust me, it is easier to do when yu have room to slip the pump off and tuck it to one side, then remove the screws and motor brackets. Myself and a few select seasoned technicians can do this lying down with the cabinet intact, but only because we have been thru the motions hundreds of times. I don't suggest it for you, rookie.

The other problem is when you lay one of these over, you almost double your chances of breaking a tub spring or bending the mounting plate. 90% of those who do this complain of balance problems later. (You'll thank me)


The cabinet takes a couple of minutes to remove. Save yourself a callback and make momma happy  by doing it right the first time