How to replace Whirlpool washer drive hub retainer W11385424

Is your Whirlpool washer making strange noises, refusing to agitate, or leaking unexpectedly? Don’t worry—these could be signs of a worn-out drive hub retainer, and with our step-by-step guide, you can replace it like a pro. To make the process even easier, watch the how-to video we’ve included below and get your washer spinning smoothly again in no time!

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

On a Whirlpool washer, the drive hub retainer is responsible for holding the drive hub in place, allowing your washer to agitate and spin properly. Over time, use and wear can cause the drive hub retainer to become damaged. Common signs that indicate the need for replacement include unusual noises during operation, failure of the agitator to move, or leaks around the washer. 

Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your washer back in working order. So, let’s get started!

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

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.

Watch here: How to replace the drive hub retainer

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 attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• 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 safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• 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.

Tools and materials needed

• Replacement part (make sure it’s compatible with your model before installing)
• Small flathead screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• 7/16″ long socket
• Long socket wrench extension
• Socket wrench
• Two hooks
• Putty knife
• Pliers 

The tools you need may vary based on your appliance model and its fasteners, so be sure to check the user manual or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the right tools.

Replacement steps

Step 1: Disassembly and removal

1. Lift the lid of the washer to access the inside.
2. Use the flat blade screwdriver to pry out the fabric softener dispenser.
3. Tilt the basket to the side.
4. Insert the screwdriver into the groove of the dispenser and pry it up carefully.
5. Locate the bolt at the bottom of the agitator.
6. Use a 7/16 inch socket attached to a long extension to access the bolt.
7. Place the socket on the bolt and hold it steady while breaking it loose.
8. Use a pair of factory-made hooks or create your own using a thin rod.
9. Insert one hook into one side of the agitator and the other hook into the opposite side.
10. Lift the hooks to help remove the agitator from the washer.
11. Use the flat blade screwdriver to pry out the drive hub retainer carefully.
12. Once loosened, use pliers to pull it out completely.

Step 2: Installation and reassembly

1. Slide the new drive hub retainer onto the shaft as far as it can go by hand.
2. If needed, use pliers or a small hammer to gently tap it into place.
3. Position the wash plate onto the shaft.
4. Ensure the spline inside the wash plate fits over the splines of the shaft.
5. Slightly wiggle the plate from side to side to align it properly, then press it down firmly.
6. Place the bolt back into the socket head of the agitator.
7. Align the agitator over the wash plate and insert it through the opening.
8. Turn the agitator over and mount it onto the wash plate.
9. Insert and tighten the bolt in the center opening, ensuring the basket remains steady.
10. Place the fabric softener dispenser back on top and push it down until it clicks into place.
11. Make sure everything is properly secured, then close the washer lid.
12. Plug the washer back into the power outlet.
13. Run a test cycle to ensure everything operates correctly.

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the drive hub retainer on 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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