How to replace Whirlpool top-load washer suspension rod kit W10440786

Is your Whirlpool top-load washer rumbling and tumbling more than it should? If you’re dealing with a tub that’s sagging or hitting against the cabinet, the culprit might be worn-out suspension rods. Luckily, you can restore your washer’s balance with a simple DIY replacement—and we’ve got a handy how-to video just below to guide you through each step!

If your Whirlpool top-load washer’s tub is sagging on one side or banging against the cabinet during the wash and spin cycles, it likely needs a new suspension rod kit. The suspension rods help keep the tub balanced, but they can wear out over time.

Thankfully, replacing them is an easy DIY project that will help get your washer spinning smoothly again.

You can order suspension rod kit W10440786 here. If you need a different kit, enter your washer’s model number at AppliancePartsPros.com.

You got this!

Watch the full repair here

Materials you’ll need

• Quarter-inch nut driver
• Flat blade screwdriver
• Holding strap (if your washer isn’t against a wall)
• New suspension rod kit W10440786 – This contains 4 suspension rods, 4 bearings, and 4 inserts

Read more: Washing Machine Shaking: Top 8 Problems and Fixes for Top-Loading and Side-Loading Washers

Keep safety first

• Always power off and unplug your washing machine 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 washer has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before making any repairs.
• 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 washer’s parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts from the washer. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Keep children and pets away from the work area while working on the washer.

Read more: 5 Ways To Keep Your Clothes Washer In Great Shape

Replacement instructions

Follow these steps to remove your washer’s old suspension rods and install the new kit:

Step 1 – Remove the rear access panel

1. Remove the quarter-inch screws along the back of the washer with your nut driver.
2. Take off the rear access panel and set it aside.

Step 2 – Remove the top panel 

1. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the corner screws at the back of the top panel.
2. Pull the top panel forward and lift the top panel up, then lean it back against the wall. If you don’t have a wall, you can use a holding strap to support the lifted top panel while you work.

Step 3 – Remove the old suspension rods

1. Move the washer tub to the side to access each rod.
2. Grab the rod and pull it up to detach it from the bearing.
3. Turn the bearing to fully disconnect the rod, then slowly lower it.
4. From inside the washer, press up on the insert at the bottom to detach it.
5. At the bottom of the tub, the suspension insert will have tabs that will need to be pressed in so that the insert can be pushed down and the rod can be removed.
6. Repeat this process for all 4 suspension rods.

Step 4 – Install the new suspension rods

1. Insert each new rod through the cutout along the side or back of the washer tub.
2. Lift up the insert at the bottom and press it in so the tabs lock into place.
3. Pull the rod up and install the new bearing. Turn it 90 degrees to lock it.
4. Repeat this process to install all 4 new suspension rods.

Step 5 – Replace the access panels

1. If you used a holding strap, remove it and slowly lower the top panel back into place.
2. Push the top panel back and replace the corner screws.
3. Reinstall the washer’s back panel.

Step 6 – Test the washer

Plug the washer back in and run a short test cycle. Listen to it as it runs to make sure it’s functioning properly and the tub is no longer banging or sagging to one side.

Read more: Install a Washer Like a Pro: A Step-by-Step Guide

Washer maintenance tips

Part maintenance

• Wipe down exterior surfaces including the lid and panels with a soft, damp cloth.
• Check and clean the water inlet filters at least once every six months to remove sediment buildup that can affect water flow.
• Check the drain pump and drain hose at least once every year to keep them free of obstructions so wastewater can exit the machine correctly.
• Make sure the washing machine is level and installed on a smooth surface to prevent it from shaking or vibrating excessively during the spin cycle.

Washing tips

• Never put the following items in your washing machine:
  • Embellished items
  • Ties
  • Baby socks
  • Any clothing or bedding with excessive pet hair (spray and brush them before washing in the machine)
• Always check clothing pockets before loading into the washer. Remove any small items such as coins, lint, keys, etc. that can clog up the machine’s components.
• Use a mesh bag with a zipper closure to wash delicate items such as bras, lingerie and swimsuits.
• Always check clothing tags for washing instructions before starting a cycle.
• Don’t load your washing machine more than 2/3 of its capacity at a time.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the suspension rod kit in your Whirlpool washer.

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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