How to replace the top agitator in a Kenmore washer

If you have an old top agitator in your Kenmore washer that’s got you in a twist and preventing your washer from agitating, we’re here to help you replace it! Swapping out the top agitator is an easy DIY fix that won’t take much supplies or time.

If you need a replacement agitator for your Kenmore washer, you can use your model number to find what you need at AppliancePartsPros.com. We also have thousands of free DIY troubleshooting and repair guides to help you fix your washer yourself.

Let’s replace that rickety agitator with one that really makes waves.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What you need

• 7/16 socket and extension
• Pliers
• Replacement top agitator (make sure it’s compatible with your washer model)

Disclaimer: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, always keep safety first to avoid personal injury or damage to the appliance or parts. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Replacement instructions

1. Make sure the washer is turned off and unplugged.
2. Turn off the water supply to the washer.
3. Access the top agitator by lifting the lid of the washer.
4. On top of the agitator, there will either be a cap or a fabric softener cap. Remove either one by pulling it up, then set it to the side.
5. Look down into the agitator and find a dust cap with a rubber seal. If you can, reach in and pull it out by hand. If you can’t reach it, use pliers to take it out. There are ridges on the cap that the pliers can grip. Once you have it out, set it to the side.
6. Find the 7/16-inch bolt.
7. Use the socket and extension to reach the 7/16-inch bolt. Since the threads are standard, go counterclockwise to loosen it. You’ll probably have to hold the lower part of the agitator so it doesn’t turn.
8. Pull out the old top agitator and turn it over, which will allow the cam with the agitator dogs to fall out.
9. Put the cam assembly into the new top agitator.
10. Replace the top agitator onto the lower part.
11. Tighten the 7/16-inch bolt.
12. Replace the dust cap and the top for your new agitator.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the top agitator in your Kenmore washing machine.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel. We can also help you troubleshoot common washing machine problems here.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!