How to replace ice maker shut-off arm WP627792 on a Whirlpool, KitchenAid or Maytag refrigerator

Is your refrigerator’s ice maker leaving you high and dry? A malfunctioning shut-off arm could be to blame, and fortunately, it’s an easy DIY fix. Scroll down to watch our step-by-step video that will guide you through replacing this small yet crucial part, ensuring your fridge is back to making ice in no time!

If you notice that your Whirlpool, KitchenAid, or Maytag refrigerator isn’t making ice correctly, there may be a problem with the ice maker’s shut-off arm. This small plastic or metal lever mounts to the side of the ice maker. The shut-off arm regulates ice production by signaling the ice maker to stop making ice when the storage bin is full. If the arm is broken or missing, replacing this inexpensive part can easily get your ice maker functioning again.

This is a straightforward DIY fix that shouldn’t take long. If you need ice maker shut-off arm WP627792, you can order it here. If you need more parts for your fridge, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPro.com to find them. Make sure to see if your model number is compatible with the part before placing an order. If you need help with this, you can call our team at 1-877-477-7278.

WATCH: How to replace ice maker shut-off arm WP627792

What you need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Replacement icemaker shut-off arm kit WP627792 (Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct part for your unit)
• Protective gloves for safety

READ MORE: 4 Simple Ways to Reduce Kitchen Waste

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• 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 steps

Step 1 – Access the ice maker assembly

1. Open the freezer door all the way.
2. Slide out the ice storage bucket from under the ice maker.
3. Lift up the ice maker shut-off arm to turn off the ice maker.

With the ice bucket removed and the arm propped up, you now have clear access to replace the shut-off arm.

READ MORE: How To Clean Refrigerator Coils

Step 2 – Remove the old ice maker arm

1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the front of the arm and the ice maker housing.
2. Carefully pry the front half of the old arm to loosen it.
3. Twist and pull to fully remove the arm from the ice maker head. You may need to wiggle it back and forth for it to completely detach.
4. At the back of the assembly, slide the back end of the arm out of its metal bracket.
5. Inspect the ice maker socket and arm housing for any cracks or damage. If any parts are severely worn or damaged, the entire ice maker will need to be replaced.

READ MORE: A Complete Guide to Refrigerator Organization

Step 3 – Install the new shut-off arm

1. Slide the back straight portion of the new arm into the metal bracket at the back of the ice maker.
2. Insert the curved front half of the arm into the socket opening on the ice maker housing. You’ll feel it snap into place when it’s positioned correctly.
3. Pivot the new shut-off arm down and up several times. Make sure it rotates smoothly through its full range of motion.

If the arm isn’t moving freely, carefully adjust the fit or reinstall it into the ice maker socket as needed. Make sure the arm is positioned downward to activate the ice maker.

READ MORE: What Temperature Should A Refrigerator Be Set To?

Final steps

1. With the new arm operational and in the down position, replace the ice bucket under the ice maker.
2. Close the freezer door and make sure it seals properly.
3. Plug in the refrigerator power cord or switch the circuit breaker back on.
4. Wait 24 hours for ice maker production to start up again.
5. Check that the fridge is cooling and making ice as expected.

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Ice maker maintenance tips

• Familiarize yourself with the use and care manual for model-specific maintenance tips.
• Clean your ice maker at least twice a year, and more frequently if you have hard water. Hard water can leave mineral deposits on the coils, which can hinder the freezing process.
• Remove old, expired foods and clean up spills in the fridge and freezer to maintain the taste and smell of ice.
• Always turn off the ice maker and unplug the refrigerator before cleaning.
• Don’t throw your ice bin in the dishwasher without checking to see if it can be washed that way. There should be a stamp on the bottom of the bin or information in the user manual that lets you know if it can be cleaned in the dishwasher. If it’s not dishwasher-safe or you’re not sure, remove it from the fridge and wash it with warm soapy water or a baking soda and water mixture. Rinse and air-dry it completely before reinstalling it.
• If you find ice buildup on any ice maker components, you can melt and clean it with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. Use a toothbrush for hard-to-reach areas and dry the ice maker thoroughly.
• Check the fridge filter regularly and replace it every six months or so to prevent mineral buildup.
• After cleaning the ice maker, discard the first few batches of ice to remove any residual dirt or cleaning solution.

READ MORE: 6 Fridge Energy Saving Tips

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the ice maker shut-off arm in your Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag refrigerator.

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.

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