Replace Actuator On Whirlpool Washer

Whirlpool, a globally recognized appliance brand, is a popular choice for many households. Among its product line, Whirlpool washers are particularly appreciated for their reliability, state-of-the-art features, and durability. Even with such a promise of quality, wear and tear over time can cause some components to malfunction. One such component is the actuator, which plays an important role in the functioning of a washing machine. This article aims to elucidate how to replace an actuator on a Whirlpool washer. The actuator in a Whirlpool washer is a key component that facilitates the machine's transition from wash to spin cycle. It functions like a gear shifting system in a car. Over time, this part may face issues due to continual usage. When this occurs, a sure sign of trouble could be your washer failing to spin or agitate, or even a noisy operation indicating a struggle between cycles. This is when you may need to replace the actuator. Replacing the actuator, while tricky, is generally considered a doable DIY task. With a little guidance and appropriate tools, it is possible to save on labor costs associated with a professional repair service. Always remember, safety first. Therefore, before you start, be sure your washer is unplugged or disconnected from the mains. After taking the necessary precautions, start with tilting back the washer to get access to the three 5/16th screws that hold the motor in place. Remove these screws using an aptly sized nut driver. Once the screws are out, lower the machine back down gently to take the motor out from the washer. You will now see the actuator positioned adjacent to the motor. It is held by two 5/16th screws. Get hold of your nut driver again to remove these. The actuator features a wire harness too that is clipped to the part. Gently unlock this harness by pressing the securing clip. Upon doing this, the actuator will be free, and you can replace it with the new one. When attaching the new actuator, ensure that you guide it correctly onto the splutch cam. The splutch cam is the grooved part onto which the actuator fits. You will need to swivel the actuator until it falls into these grooves perfectly. Once this is done, substitute back the screws to hold the actuator in place and reconnect the wire harness. After installing the new actuator, it's time to put the motor back in. Lift your washer back into a tilted position and slide the motor onto its respective tabs. Ensure two plastic tabs on the motor fit into two small holes in the washer's base for a secure fit. Replace the screws you initially removed to secure the motor. With this, your new actuator is installed and ready. However, it is crucial to test the washer to ensure the replaced actuator is functioning correctly. Connect back the washer to the power supply and start a wash cycle. If the machine shifts smoothly between cycles with no accompanying noise, congratulations, your replacement attempt has been successful! It is noteworthy that while replacing the actuator on your Whirlpool washer, patience and carefulness are essential. Small hasty mistakes like not fitting the actuator or the motor correctly may result in bigger malfunctions. Always make sure to properly align and secure every component before moving to the next step. Moreover, it is important to have the correct part for replacement. You should always look for genuine Whirlpool parts from authorized dealers. Using an incorrect or low-quality part may not resolve the issue and can lead to further complications. To sum up, replacing the actuator on a Whirlpool washer is a somewhat complex process, but with a bit of care, it’s something you can do it yourself. It's highly cost-effective and definitely a pick up skill for any Whirlpool appliance owner. However, in any case, if you feel unsure, there is no harm in seeking professional help. After all, keeping your Whirlpool washer in optimum working condition is the main goal.