How to replace the Whirlpool trash compactor power nut kit

Is your trash compactor not compacting like it used to? The culprit might be a worn or damaged power nut, essential for your compactor’s functionality. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with a step-by-step guide and a handy how-to video just below to help you replace the power nut and get your appliance back in action.

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On a Whirlpool trash compactor, the power nut kit is the part that connects the drive motor to the ram piston assembly, allowing the compactor to compact the trash. Over time, the power nut may wear out or become damaged, resulting in reduced compacting or complete failure to run. 

This repair is relatively straightforward and can typically be completed within a short amount of time. In this guide, we will provide you with instructions to help you successfully replace the power nut kit and get your trash compactor working once again. Let’s get started!

Watch here: How To: Whirlpool/KitchenAid/Maytag Power Nut Kit WP9870163

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

• 1/4″ nut driver
• Tape
• Flathead screwdriver
• 3/8″ socket

Safety precautions

• 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 injury from electric shock.
• Don’t test wiring with a multimeter for live voltage if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short circuiting when testing. 
• 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.
• 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 the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 

Replacement steps

Removal

1. Press down on the pedal and pull out the drawer of the trash compactor.
2. Lift the front of the compactor up by the handle until it goes over the drawer stops.
3. Take hold of the drawer by the sides and remove it from the compactor.
4. Uninstall the trash compactor from the kitchen cabinet. It may be mounted to the countertop through the top brackets or through the sides at the front.
5. Pull off the filter cover and remove the charcoal filter.
6. Take out the four screws on the top panel and slide the top cover off.
7. Place the trash compactor on its side and remove five screws to remove the bottom cover plate.
8. Turn the main gear counterclockwise until the ram is free from the power screws.
9. Lift the compactor upright and tape the directional switch actuator lever to the cabinet.
10. Carefully lift the ram out and place it on a workable surface.
11. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, remove the retainer washers, push out all the pins, and remove the old part.
12. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side.

Installation

1. To install the new power nut, slide it onto the ram.
2. Put the mounting pins through the holes and, using a 3/8 socket head, push the retainer washers supplied in the kit onto the pins.
3. Repeat the procedure on the opposite side.
4. Install the ram into the trash compactor with a bracket facing the directional switch.
5. Lay the trash compactor on its side and turn the main gear clockwise until the power screws engage the power nuts.
6. Install the bottom cover plate and secure it with the screws.
7. Place the compactor upright and remove the tape from the directional switch actuator lever.
8. Install the top cover panel and secure it with screws.
9. Reinstall the compactor and secure it to the cabinet with the mounting brackets.
10. Reinstall the charcoal filter and put the charcoal filter frame on.
11. Grab the drawer by the sides and slide it in and close the drawer.
12. Plug the trash compactor in or turn the power on at the circuit breaker.
13. Run a test cycle to check for any problems.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the power nut kit on your Whirlpool trash compactor. 

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.

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