How to replace the gearcase on a Whirlpool washing machine

Replacing the gearcase is one of the most common repairs for Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Maytag washers when the machine is no longer agitating or spinning clothes properly. The gearcase houses the gears which control the agitator and spin cycles. Over time, these plastic gears can become worn out or damaged, causing the washer to malfunction. Replacing the gearcase is an involved but straightforward DIY project that you can tackle in the afternoon. With the right tools and replacement parts, you can have your washer going again in no time.

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.

What you’ll need

• Torx T30 driver
• 10mm socket
• 7mm socket
• Wrench with a short extension
• 1⁄4 inch nut driver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Putty knife
• Hooks/strap
• 7/16 socket wrench
• Mallet
• Plastic mallet
• Replacement gearcase (can be purchased by clicking here)

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.

Prepping the washer

Before you can access the gearcase, you need to prepare the washer by tipping it onto its front.

1. Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet. Turn off the hot and cold water supply valves.
2. Clear a space on the floor in front of the washer. Place a sturdy box or platform on the floor that will support the weight of the washer when tipped forward.
3. Carefully tip the washer forward onto the box. The washer is heavy, so get help or use a lever if needed. Make sure it is completely stable.
4. Remove the insulation pad from the underside of the washer. Bend and pull it up to remove it.
5. Use the Torx T30 driver to unscrew and remove the motor rotor in the center. Be careful when handling it because it contains strong magnets.

Accessing the gearcase

With the washer prepped, you can now start taking it apart to access the gearcase.

1. Unplug the two wire harness plugs on the side. They have locking tabs that you need to press down.
2. Use the 10mm socket wrench to remove the center mounting bolt.
3. Switch to the 7mm socket and remove the three screws holding on the stator and clutch. Support the stator as you remove the last screw.
4. Remove the two 1/4-inch screws holding on the plastic bracket. Detach the bracket.
5. Take out the spiral retaining clip using a hooked tool. Slide off the retainer spring and slider gear.
6. Remove the three 10mm bolts holding on the gearcase.

Removing the gearcase

With the gearcase detached, you can now fully remove it from the washer.

1. Stand the washer back up. Remove the cover plate by taking out the single 1/4-inch screw.
2. Take out two more 1/4-inch screws at the back of the top panel.
3. Push the top forward, lift it up, and hook it onto the back tabs to hold it open. Secure it in place with a strap.
4. Use a putty knife to detach the tub ring by opening the clips. Lift off the tub ring.
5. Remove the wash plate cap with a flathead screwdriver.
6. Use the 7/16 socket wrench to detach the main mounting bolt and remove the wash plate.
7. Remove the spinner nut from the driveshaft using a spanner wrench and mallet.
8. Knock the driveshaft out through the bottom using a wood block and heavy mallet.
9. Lift off the wash basket and lower the washer top. Secure it with 1/4-inch screws.
10. Tilt the washer onto the box again. The old gearcase can now be lifted out.

Installing the new gearcase

Now that the old gearcase is removed, you can install the new replacement part.

1. Prep the new gearcase by lubricating the seal with soap. This will make installation easier.
2. Orient the new gearcase correctly and fit it into place. You may need to turn it side to side.
3. Press down firmly until the gearcase seats properly.
4. Reattach the 10mm mounting bolts. Tighten them diagonally for stability.
5. Reinstall the slider gear, spring, and retainer clip. Make sure they are fully seated.
6. Remount the stator, clutch, bracket, and wire harness plugs.
7. Reinstall the motor rotor and central screw. Tighten with the plastic mallet.

Completing the repair

You’re now on the home stretch. Just reassemble the washer in the reverse order you took it apart.

1. Stand the washer back up and remount the wash basket and plate, tub ring, and top panel.
2. Remove the safety strap and screws securing the top panel.
3. Push the top back into place making sure the front locks in.
4. Reattach the two 1⁄4 inch screws on top and the cover plate.
5. Turn the water supply back on and plug in the washer.
6. Run a test cycle to check for leaks and make sure the washer is functioning properly again.

More information

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

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