How to replace KitchenAid stand mixer rear sleeve bearing WPW10170081

Is your KitchenAid mixer struggling with excessive noise or motor strain? The culprit could be a worn-out rear sleeve bearing, but don’t worry—this common issue is easy to tackle at home. Discover our step-by-step guide and watch the how-to video below to learn how you can replace the rear sleeve bearing yourself and get your mixer back in top shape.

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

The rear sleeve bearing on a KitchenAid stand mixer can be found in the transmission housing of many five-quart models and all six-quart models. It’s attached to the worm gear to help reduce friction and keep the mixer aligned while it’s working.

Over time, with normal wear and tear, the rear sleeve bearing may become damaged or worn out. This can cause mixer issues including excessive noise, motor strain, or even a mixer that doesn’t mix at all.

With just a few tools and a few guidelines, you can save time and money by repairing the rear sleeve bearing yourself.

You can find a replacement rear sleeve bearing WPW10170081 here. If you need other replacement parts for your KitchenAid stand 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 the full repair here: How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Rear Sleeve Bearing WPW10170081

What you’ll need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Flat-head screwdriver
• New rear sleeve bearing (make sure it’s compatible with your specific model before installing)

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: KitchenAid Stand Mixer Attachments To Try

Check part compatibility

Before you replace the rear sleeve bearing, make sure you have an OEM part that’s compatible with your specific mixer model. To do this, you’ll need to find the appliance model number.

The model number will say MOD or Model before the numbers and is typically found on a sticker or a metal plate in one of the following locations:

• On the underside of the mixer’s base
• On the back of the mixer’s head or motor housing
• On the side of the mixer’s base

Once you’ve found the model number, write it down or take a clear photo of it for reference.

Next, visit AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can enter your model number to check if the rear sleeve bearing is compatible with your model.

Read more: How to replace KitchenAid mixer worm gear WP9709231

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 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.

How to replace the rear sleeve bearing

Follow these steps to change out the rear sleeve bearing in your KitchenAid stand mixer.

Step 1: Remove the old rear sleeve bearing

1. Unplug the mixer from the power outlet.
2. Lift the beater and turn it clockwise to release it, then pull it out.
3. Lift the bowl off the mounting pegs and pull it out.
4. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the trim in place on the back of the mixer.
5. Lift the trim and set it aside.
6. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws that hold the cover on. There should be two screws on each side.
7. Lift the cover off and set it aside.
8. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the speed control board in place.
9. Lift the speed control board and set it aside.
10. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to release the tabs that hold the sensor in place. Press on each side of the tabs to release them.
11. Pull the sensor out of the motor and swing the speed control out of the way.
12. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the four screws that hold the transmission cover down.
13. Lift the transmission housing off.
14. Lift the worm gear and pull the old rear sleeve bearing off the shaft. Set the worm gear aside.
15. Remove the rear sleeve bearing from the mixer.

Step 2: Install the new rear sleeve bearing

1. Place the new rear sleeve bearing on so that the side with the shorter flange is towards the gear.
2. Lift the worm gear and slide it onto the shaft. Make sure the flat sides on each side are vertical.
3. Put the housing back on and line it up. Flip it over and push it down into place. If it doesn’t go down completely, turn the hub attachment until it aligns with the beveled gear.
4. Use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the screws that hold the housing in place.
5. Remount the speed control board by plugging in the sensor. Make sure it clips into the motor. Rotate the board over and line it up with the screw holes. Use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the screws.
6. Line up the cover and set it down on the mixer. Use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the four screws.
7. Put the trim ring back on and use a Phillips screwdriver to secure the screw at the back.
8. Put the bowl back on by lining up the pins on each side and pushing down on the back to snap it into place.
9. Line the beater up on the shaft and make sure the pin goes into the cutout. Turn it counterclockwise to lock it into place.
10. Plug the mixer back in and test it to make sure it works correctly.

Read more: How To Clean And Maintain Your Stand Mixer

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the rear sleeve bearing 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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