How to test the gearcase on a Maytag washer that is unbalanced

If your Maytag washer is unbalanced during spin and agitation, the problem may be with the gearcase. Before you call for a repair technician, you can quickly test the part yourself to determine if it’s the source of the issue. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll have the knowledge to troubleshoot the problem and get your appliance back up and running.

If you find out that 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 testing information in this article is based on model number MVWC400XW4 and may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What is the gearcase?

The gearcase, also known as the transmission, is responsible for converting the rotational motion of the motor into the back-and-forth agitation and spin motion needed for the washing cycle.

The key functions of the gearcase include:

• Speed reduction: A series of gears reduce the high-speed rotation of the motor into a slower, more controlled motion suitable for the wash and spin cycles.
• Directional change: The gearcase reverses the direction of the motor’s rotation, allowing the tub to go back-and-forth during agitation and spin in one direction during the spin cycle.
• Power transfer: The gearcase transfers the power from the motor to the wash basket, providing the necessary torque and motion to agitate the clothes and spin the tub.

This part is located at the bottom of the washing machine, encased in a protective housing. It contains various moving parts like gears, shafts, bearings, and seals that work together to perform these essential functions.

Over time, the components inside the gearcase can wear out, become damaged, or fail, leading to symptoms such as unbalanced spin, excessive noise, and improper cycle operation. 

Tools and materials

• 7/16″ socket
• flathead screwdriver

The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more:  How to replace the gearcase in a Maytag washer

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.
• 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. 
• 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.

Read more:  How to fix an unbalanced Maytag washer

Testing steps

1. Unplug the washing machine from the power source or turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Open the washing machine lid and locate the agitator in the center of the wash tub.
3. Using a flathead screwdriver, gently pry off the center cap on top of the agitator to access the agitator bolt underneath.
4. Using a 7/16″ socket, remove the agitator bolt by turning it counterclockwise.
5. Carefully lift the agitator plate off the driveshaft, exposing the top of the gearcase.
6. Locate the driveshaft that connects the gearcase to the agitator. Gently grasp the driveshaft and try to wiggle it back and forth.
7. Check for any excessive play or looseness in the driveshaft. If the driveshaft wiggles around significantly, it indicates a problem with the gearcase and will need to be replaced.
8. Once the test and replacement is complete, replace the agitator plate back onto the driveshaft.
9. Secure the agitator in place by threading the 7/16″ agitator bolt clockwise and tightening it down.
10. Snap the center cap back onto the top of the agitator.
11. Reconnect the washing machine to power by plugging it back in or turning the circuit breaker back on.

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Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Maytag washer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos. 

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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