How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6020256 / WPW10352973 Dispenser Actuator

After watching the YouTube video provided by Appliancepartspros and checking various forums I determined the dispenser motor had gone out. Turns out, it was a two part problem. The connectors to the motor, and the motor had corroded. Cleaned them both with vinegar. The old motor did a load before I started having problems with the CCU. I didn't learn about the CCU needing a reset under the quick diagnostics until after replacing the motor and the new part doing the same thing. Both the new motor and old would just spin. By this point I was desperate seeing as I work 10-12 hour shifts with no time to hit up a laundromat at 4 am. I found the technicians manual in the washer and this is when I figured out how to get the machine into diagnostic mode and ran the quick diagnostic. Resetting the CCU in the process and finally getting the machine to work properly. I erased all the previous saved coded errors before the quick diagnostic. I've since been able to do laundry. Installing the motor was a 10 minute fix. Fought with it for 2 weeks before ordering a new motor. And, the quick diagnostic took an hour or two. Other than the long shipping wait for an overnight order (ordered on a Friday after 5 pm Central) I received the correct part the first time. It's a Whirlpool part number which put me into a panic upon ordering, but the service person assured me it was the correct part. Totally pleased with my experience, and the fact Appliancepartspros took the time to create their video allowing me to repair my washer myself which sat unused for 3 years. Just wish they had added a section about the quick diagnostic. Maybe it wasn't needed, but clearly in my case I'd have never gotten it working without that technicians manual. 

Followed the directions we got online and had the washer running in 20 minutes. 

I ordered a dispenser motor and switch assembly. Part # AP6020256. Part was in within 3 days, I took three screws out at the back of the top of the washer and pulled the top off. Removed the two connector clips, removed two hex screws and slid out the old motor while disconnecting the top arm. Reversed the order(make sure the arm is attached correctly. There is one flat side to make sure it fits properly). Turned on my washer and it worked perfectly. I am a woman, but like to repair things. 

Replace the mcu. 

Error code was displayed F8e2 which was related to the dispenser. Switch dispenser kept on making a clicking noise. Order a new switch dispenser easy to install. Job took about 25 minutes to move and remover cover of washer and install new part. 

Ordered a new dispenser switch and cleaned out the dispenser container and mechanism since they were pretty dirty. Not sure if the switch was at fault of just dirt making the mechanism hard for the motor to move but it seems to work ok now. Job was relatively easy, couple of hours total and that included a thorough cleaning of the dispenser container and mechanism with bleach and an old toothbrush. 

I replaced the water valve (F20), dispenser motor and switch assy for softener problem. 

Removed 2 screws, unhooked the cable and disengaged the bad motor from the plastic arm. I attached the new switch, put both screws back in, hooked up the cables and reattached the plastic arm and that was it. Ran the machine and it worked perfectly. 

I Googled the error code and found that it was caused by a faulty dispenser motor switch. Watching the Appliance Parts Pros video, I found that this would be a simple repair. I shopped online and found several knockoff brand parts that “should” fit my Whirlpool, but Appliance Parts Pros was the only site that had the cheapest exact fit OEM replacement. It took me all of 15 minutes to remove and replace the faulty dispenser motor. The washer is running like new once again, and for far less than it would have cost me just for a repairman to just walk in the door. 

Using the dispenser motor the repair only took about 5 minutes. 2 screws and 2 electrical connections after taking the top cover off the washer and that’s it. Easy fix 5-10 minutes tops