How to replace KitchenAid stand mixer planetary assembly WP9708172


Steven E / Friday April 26, 2024


Is your once-silent KitchenAid mixer now sounding more like a construction site with grinding noises and wobbles? Over time, regular use can cause damage to the planetary assembly—the part responsible for rotating your mixer’s attachments—leaving you in a culinary conundrum. But fear not, with our step-by-step guide and included how-to video, you’ll have your mixer running smoothly again in no time!

Need a part?  Search below using your appliance model number to find exactly what you need:

The planetary assembly on a KitchenAid stand mixer rotates the attachments so your mixer can mix, knead, or whisk ingredients. Over time with regular use and wear, the planetary can become damaged.

Besides visible damage, you might need to replace the planetary assembly if your mixer is making grinding or scraping noises or jittery movements while it’s working. The mixer might also shake or wobble excessively and you might have trouble engaging or disengaging its attachments.

Fortunately, you can tackle this repair yourself with a few basic tools and patience.

You can find a replacement planetary here. If you need other replacement parts for your KitchenAid mixer, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Watch here: How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Planetary Assembly WP9708172

What you need

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.

Read more:  Fixing KitchenAid Mixer Stuck at High Speed: A Step-by-Step Guide

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 you attempt 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 while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
  • Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
  • Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
  • 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.
  • Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more:  KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachments To Try

How to replace the planetary assembly

Follow these steps to change out the planetary assembly in your KitchenAid stand mixer.

Step 1: Disassemble the mixer & remove the old assembly

  1. Unplug the mixer from the electrical outlet.
  2. Lift the beater slightly, turn it clockwise, let it drop, then pull it out.
  3. Lift the bowl off the mounting pegs to remove it.
  4. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw holding the trim band at the back of the mixer. Set the trim aside.
  5. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws holding the cover (two on each side). Lift and set the cover aside.
  6. Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the speed control board. Carefully lift and move the board out of the way.
  7. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to release the tabs on the sensor and remove it from the motor.
  8. Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws that hold the transmission cover. Lift off the transmission housing.
  9. Remove the accessory drive gear and set it aside. Clean it if necessary.
  10. Remove the worm gear. Slide off any bearings and washers from it and clean it with a soft cloth.
  11. Clean off old grease from gears and drive shaft.
  12. Use snap ring pliers to remove the snap ring from the shaft. Avoid overextending the ring to prevent bending.
  13. Lift out the beveled gear. You can use a flat-head screwdriver if necessary to provide leverage. Clean the gear and set it aside.
  14. Use a punch to push out the pin that’s holding the worm follower gear. Remove and clean the gear.
  15. Drop the old planetary assembly out.

Step 2: Install the new planetary assembly & reassemble the mixer

  1. Grease the worm follower gear so it can be reinstalled.
  2. Apply planetary grease generously to the external and pinion gears.
  3. Lift the new planetary assembly into the mixer.
  4. Place the worm follower gear onto the shaft and align the raised side as needed.
  5. Insert the pin to secure the worm follower gear to the shaft.
  6. Grease and replace the beveled gear. Make sure it’s aligned so it rests on the shaft.
  7. Reinstall the snap ring with the snap ring pliers.
  8. Replace the transmission housing and secure it with the screws.
  9. Reattach the speed control board and sensor.
  10. Replace the cover and secure it with the four screws.
  11. Reattach the trim band and secure it with the screw.
  12. Place the bowl back onto its pegs and snap it into place.
  13. Attach the beater by aligning it with the shaft and turning it counterclockwise so it locks.
  14. Plug the mixer back in.
  15. Test the mixer to make sure everything is working correctly.

Read more: How To Clean And Maintain Your Stand Mixer

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the planetary on your KitchenAid stand mixer.

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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