How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6011544 / WP777533 Trash Compactor Power Nut

I removed the front panel,by removing the small screws underneath it, then removed the screws on the front of the top panel and removed it. Then i removed the bolts that hold the metal covers that held down the power nuts,which are made of plastic.then i removed the broken power nuts, which takes a few min.because of the long screws it has to travel to the top.i replaced them with the new ones and replaced the metal caps, be sure the plastic ears on the new ones line up with the metal caps , to keep from breaking them off.the caps won't go down and screw back down until this happens.then i removed the bad directional switch; which is located behind the front panel on the inside frame and replaced it. Then i plugged it back in and tried it out to see if it works before i replaced the top panel and front panel. Once i verified it was working properly, i replaced the top panel and the front panel. I then pushed it back under the cabinet where it has been for the past twenty years.it now works like it has done for the past twenty years.so glad to have it working again.i sure missed it while it was down. My compactor is a whirlpool trash compactor ,which i have had for the last twenty years,this is the first time i have had a problem with it,in twenty years 

Replace the plastic parts. 

Removed the ram assembly, replaced both (2) power nuts, replaced drive gears, replaced ram assembly. While replacing the ram assembly; I broke the upper limit switch and had to replace it as well. The instructions would have been nice to have with the original parts shipment. Not with the "follow up" 

Pulled compactor out removed top plate then removed the hold down cover over the nut. Replaced the nut on both sides and the replaced the top cover. 

Replaced gears, bearing, power nuts, cleaned it up and repaint. 

I pulled the unit out, took it out side, since it was filled with the refrigerator dump for the trash run the next day. I removed the access panels to try to see what was wrong and found that the ram power nut on one side had failed. It was split and the "ears" were sheared off. Who has parts for a OLD compactor?? The reliable source I've used in the past might, an on line search proved right! 2 power nuts and a new control switch revived my brides 2nd favorite kitchen disposal unit! Replacement of the old power nut is easy if done one at a time since the ram is supported in the proper location and it is easy to index the power nut. I replaced the switch just because of age and use wear of the contacts. 

Replaced two power nuts. 

Replaced the 2 nylon power nuts, as shown on parts page.