How to replace gear case W11454372 on a Whirlpool washer

Is your Whirlpool washer refusing to spin or making unbearable noises during a cycle? A faulty gearcase could be the invisible villain. Don’t worry—our comprehensive guide below, complete with an easy-to-follow video tutorial, will have you back in clean clothes in no time.

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The transmission gearcase W11454372 on a Whirlpool washer is the hard-working part responsible for turning the agitator and spinning the inner wash basket during wash and spin cycles. Located underneath the outer tub, the plastic gears inside the gearcase engage at different speeds to drive the various stages of cleaning and extracting water from the laundry load.

Over time, normal wear and tear can lead to cracked, stripped, or broken gears. Symptoms of a failing gearcase include the washer not agitating properly, not spinning, stopping mid-cycle, or making loud grinding noises during operation. 

Watch the full repair here!

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Time required

• 2-3 hours for first-time repair.

Tools needed

• Flat blade screwdriver
• Phillips head screwdriver
• 1/4″ nut driver
• 5/16″ nut driver
• Needle nose pliers
• Socket wrench with 1/2″, 7/16″, 10mm and 5/16″ heads
• Rubber mallet or plastic hammer
• Liquid dish soap

• Gearcase assembly, part #W11454372

Safety precautions   

Safety should always be a priority when working on any appliance. Here are a few practical tips to help you stay safe:

• Turn off the power to the appliance by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker before starting any maintenance or repairs. This protects you from the risk of electric shock.
• Wear insulated gloves to shield your hands from sharp edges, pinching hazards, or debris.
• Work at a steady pace and take your time to avoid accidents or injuries.
• Make sure your workspace is well-lit so you can clearly see and access the parts you’re working on.
• Keep the area clear of clutter, and ensure children and pets stay out of the workspace.
• Never handle internal parts with wet hands. Check that both your hands and the work area are completely dry.
• Refer to your appliance’s user manual for any specific instructions or safety guidelines related to the part or repair.
• Handle parts gently to avoid damage to the appliance or potential injuries from applying too much force.
• Use safety glasses when dealing with chemicals, dust, or large debris to protect your eyes from harm.
• If the appliance was recently used, give it enough time to cool down before working on any heated components.
• Take photos or notes of wiring connections and terminals before disconnecting anything to make reassembly easier.
• Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. If you must handle wires, use non-conductive tools or wear insulated gloves to minimize the risk of electrical shock.

Step-by-step repair process

Accessing the gear case

1. Opening the washer lid: Begin by lifting the washer lid to access the interior components of the machine.
2. Removing the fabric softener dispenser and agitator: With a flat blade screwdriver, pry off the fabric softener dispenser located at the top of the agitator. To remove the agitator, unscrew the bolt at its base using a 7/16-inch socket with an extension. If the agitator proves stubborn, employ a pair of hooks to lift it out. These hooks can be fashioned from wire or a thin rod, bent to fit into the agitator’s holes for easy removal.
3. Detaching the hub retainer, water inlet hoses, and drain hose: Utilize a flat-blade screwdriver to pry out the hub retainer. Then, with a quarter-inch nut driver, remove the screws securing the water inlet hoses and the drain hose, preparing the washer for further disassembly.

Removing the inner basket

After the top components are removed, the focus shifts to the inner basket. This might require additional effort:

1. Lifting off the top ring: Locate the clips holding the top ring in place and use a flat-blade screwdriver to pop them open. Remove the top ring to reveal the inner basket.
2. Extracting the inner basket: Sometimes, the basket can be removed with minimal effort; other times, it may resist. In such cases, place a piece of wood at the junction where metal meets plastic to protect the tub, and use a car jack (with a piece of wood on its head) to gently lift the basket off the shaft.

Replacing the gear case

1. Preparing the new gear case: Before installing the new gear case, apply a small amount of liquid soap to its seal. This lubrication facilitates an easier insertion into the washer’s tub.
2. Installation: Carefully position the new gear case, ensuring it aligns correctly with the mounting points within the washer. Secure it in place with the provided bolts, tightening them to ensure stability.

Reassembly process

Installing the drain pump

1. Preparation: Apply a thin layer of liquid soap on the seal of the drain pump. This facilitates an easier installation and ensures a watertight seal.
2. Attachment: Align the drain pump with the mounting points on the gear case. Secure it using 5/16 inch bolts, ensuring a snug fit to prevent any leaks.

Clutch assembly installation

1. Assembly preparation: Place the spring inside the clutch assembly before installation. This step is crucial for the proper functioning of the clutch mechanism.
2. Installation: Align the tabs of the clutch assembly with the slots on the gear case. Turn it clockwise to lock it into place, confirming that it is securely fastened and operational.

Capacitor and shifter actuator

1. Capacitor placement: Position the capacitor into its mount by aligning it at a slight angle, then turning it clockwise to secure it. This component is essential for the motor’s electrical performance.
2. Shifter actuator: Connect the shifter actuator plug before mounting it. This ensures easier handling. Secure the actuator with Phillips screws, ensuring it is correctly positioned for engaging the washer’s cycles.

Pulley and motor installation

1. Pulley placement: Install the gear case pulley onto the shaft, aligning the splines for a perfect fit. Tighten the securing nut with a half-inch socket, ensuring it is firmly in place.
2. Motor attachment: Position the motor, aligning it with the mounting holes on the gear case. Secure it using half-inch bolts. Proper alignment and tightening are crucial for the motor’s efficient operation.

Drive belt and cover shield

1. Belt installation: Place the drive belt onto the motor pulley, then stretch it over the gear case pulley. Rotate the pulley as you guide the belt into place, ensuring it is taut and correctly aligned.
2. Shield attachment: Reattach the cover shield over the gear case and motor area, securing it with 5/16 inch screws. This protects the internal components from debris and damage.

Final steps

1. Repositioning the washer: Carefully return the washer to its upright position, removing any supports used during the repair process.
2. Inner basket and top ring: Place the inner basket onto the shaft, pressing down gently to secure. Reinstall the top ring, ensuring it snaps into place over the tub, securing the basket.
3. Reconnecting hoses and wires: Reattach the water inlet hoses and the drain hose. Ensure all electrical connections are secure and correctly positioned.

Calibration and testing

• After the washer has been reassembled, it’s imperative to calibrate it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This process ensures the washer operates correctly with the new gear case.
• Perform a test run with no laundry to ensure everything functions as expected. Listen for any unusual noises and observe the washer through a complete cycle to confirm the issue has been resolved.

More information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog, and more.

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