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Customer Questions and Answers for Return Switch by Ge

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Manufacturer Part
4.89 (64)
By: Ge
Part Number: OEM21037671
Manufacturer Part Number: WC21X20249

The Return Switch is an OEM part for GE trash compactors. This part ensures that the compacting ram returns to its starting position after each compaction cycle.  

Causes of a malfunctioning return switch can vary from electrical issues, such as short circuits or worn-out connections, to mechanical problems, including physical damage from wear and tear or blockages preventing the switch's activation.  

Symptoms of a faulty  Return Switch include:

  • The compactor ram fails to return to its original position after a compaction cycle.
  • The unit does not start or operate correctly, indicating issues with the cycle initiation.
  • Unusual noises or behavior from the trash compactor, suggesting that the ram is not aligning or moving as expected.

This OEM GE part is also compatible with Hotpoint, RCA, and some Kenmore models.

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Questions & Answers

For Ge Return Switch (Part Number: OEM21037671)

1 Answer

Robert, You will want to test the directional switches to see which one is bad but yes your unit does require 2 directional switches WC21X20249.

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Garage Mechanic for Model Number gcg1580L0ss

The compactor stopped working and only hummed when I started the compaction cycle. I replaced the motor and now the unit starts. But the compactor ram only moves about two inches and then stops. I hear the motor click when the ram stops. I reset the ram to the start position and can restart but only after the motor clicks again after a few minutes. When I restart, the ram still only goes 2 inches. I noticed that the drawer trip switch was flashing blue inside, so I think it might be a short in it. So I think I should order a new switch. Given the problem with the travel of the ram, should I also get the directional and limit switches? I can't figure out why the ram won't complete the cycle once started. Thanks.

1 Answer

Hello Garage mechanic. Yes, if it is flashing, you will need to replace the switch as well.

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Tim for Model Number GCG1580

When pedal is lifted compactor makes a humming sound but nothing moves. Took apart and replaced a clip on the gear that was off. Worked fine for several days; now doing the same thing. Read several forums with others having same problem. Some said replacing the directional switch solved their problem. In the diagram, it appears there are 2 directional switches (part # 102)? Also the top limit/directional switch (part # 138)... same thing? Is there a way to test the switches? Which switch should I replace and how many of each do I need?

1 Answer

Hello Tim, It sounds like the door tilt switch WC21X20109 is the issue but it is normally caused by the drawer being out of whack. You should check the rollers and tracks to determine if they are contributing to the issue or if the switch is just failing.

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1 Answer

Hi. The top switch is a ON/Off switch part # WC21X20129. If the start switch contacts are fused then this will occur. Next to it is a top limit (Directional) switch part # WC21X20249. If it is stuck on (ohms closed) then it will create this action. Thank You.

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