Have you ever eagerly tossed your laundry into the washing machine, expecting fresh, clean clothes in just an hour, only to open the lid afterward and find your garments still submerged in dirty water? This common issue often points to a problem with the agitator—the core component responsible for cleaning your clothes effectively.
The agitator is a vital part inside your washer that moves clothes back and forth, creating the scrubbing action needed to loosen dirt and grime. When this mechanism fails to operate correctly, your clothes won’t get the thorough cleaning they deserve. If your Amana washer is not agitating, don’t worry—most issues can be diagnosed and fixed with some straightforward troubleshooting steps.
Comprehensive Steps to Fix an Amana Washer That Won’t Agitate or Spin
This guide covers the most common reasons your washer may refuse to agitate or spin, along with practical solutions to restore proper function. Here’s a structured overview:
- 1. Faulty Lid Switch
- 2. Damaged Drive Belt
- 3. Motor Problems
- 4. Worn Agitator Dogs or Cogs
- 5. Loose or Damaged Agitator
- 6. Defective Control Board
Diagnosing and Fixing When the Washer Won’t Agitate but Will Spin
Sometimes, your Amana washer may spin normally but fail to agitate. This specific issue indicates different potential problems which require targeted fixes:
- 1. Broken or Damaged Agitator
- 2. Faulty Transmission
- 3. Drive Motor Malfunctions
- 4. Defective Lid Switch or Timer
- 5. Worn Motor Coupling
Addressing Common Causes of a Non-Agitating Washer
1. Faulty Lid Switch
The lid switch acts as a safety interlock, preventing the washer from agitating or spinning when the lid is open. Located directly beneath the top lid, this switch is pressed by a small extension when the lid closes, signaling the machine to proceed with the cycle. If this switch malfunctions, your washer may refuse to agitate or spin. To replace a faulty lid switch, follow these steps:
- Unplug the washing machine from the power supply.
- Remove the top panel to access the wiring connected to the lid switch.
- Disconnect the wiring harness from the faulty switch.
- Unscrew and remove the switch mounting screws.
- Install the new lid switch in the same position and securely fasten it.
- Reconnect the wiring harness to the new switch.
- Replace the top panel and restore power to test the repair.
2. Damaged Drive Belt
The drive belt links the motor to the transmission, transmitting power necessary for both agitation and spinning. Over time, normal wear and tear can cause the belt to become frayed, cracked, or completely break, leading to a loss of agitation function. Signs of a worn belt include squeaking noises during operation, a burning rubber smell, or the belt slipping on the pulleys. To replace the drive belt:
- Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet.
- Remove the access panel at the bottom or back of the machine.
- Locate the drive belt and inspect it for signs of damage or wear.
- Loosen the tensioner pulley or pivot the motor to release tension on the belt.
- Carefully remove the old belt from the pulleys and motor shaft.
- Loop the new belt around the pulleys following the manufacturer’s routing diagram.
- Re-establish tension by repositioning the motor or tensioner pulley.
- Manually rotate the drum to ensure the belt seats properly.
- Reattach the access panel and plug in the washer to verify the repair.
3. Motor Problems
The motor is the powerhouse of your washer, providing the necessary movement to both agitate and spin. Internal issues such as burnt-out windings, worn brushes, or electrical faults can prevent the motor from functioning correctly. Visually inspect the motor for signs of damage, and use a multimeter to check for continuity in its windings. If the motor isn’t running or tests indicate a fault, it will need replacement. This process involves:
- Disconnecting the power supply and removing the machine’s cabinet for access.
- Unplugging the wiring from the motor.
- Removing the mounting brackets securing the motor.
- Installing the new motor, reconnecting all wiring, and testing before reassembling.
4. Worn Agitator Dogs or Cogs
In many top-load models, small plastic parts known as agitator dogs or cogs connect the upper and lower sections of the agitator, allowing for controlled movement. Over years of use, these plastic components can wear down or break, resulting in the agitator not turning properly during the wash cycle. Symptoms include clicking noises or the upper agitator spinning freely without moving the clothes. To replace agitator dogs:
- Unplug the washer and open the lid.
- Remove the cap covering the bolt at the top of the agitator.
- Unscrew and lift off the upper agitator section to access the spline and dogs.
- Detach the lower portion of the agitator by unscrewing the base.
- Replace any worn or broken plastic dogs with new ones.
- Reassemble the agitator components, ensuring the dogs fit freely and securely.
- Reinstall the bolt and cap, then test the washer’s agitation function.
5. Loose or Damaged Agitator
An improperly mounted or loose agitator can wobble or shift during operation, preventing effective agitation. To diagnose this, try grasping the top of the agitator and moving it side to side. Excessive looseness indicates the need for tightening. To repair:
- Unplug the washer.
- Access the agitator and tighten the mounting bolts from inside the agitator base.
- Ensure the internal spline properly engages with the drive shaft.
- Replace any worn or damaged internal components.
- Test the agitator’s movement to confirm the fix.
6. Defective Control Board
The control board acts as the central processing unit, managing all operations of your washer. Damage from electrical shorts, overheating, or component failure can cause the washer to stop agitating. Visual signs include burnt smells, scorched components, or loose wiring. To replace the control board:
- Unplug the washer and open the control panel.
- Label and disconnect all wiring from the faulty board.
- Unscrew and remove the damaged control board.
- Mount and connect the new control board securely.
- Reassemble the control panel, restore power, and run a test cycle to ensure proper operation.
Fixing a Washer That Won’t Agitate but Will Spin
If your Amana washer spins normally but refuses to agitate, the issue can stem from a variety of components. Here’s a detailed look at potential causes and their fixes:
1. Broken or Worn Agitator
The agitator must be intact and properly connected for effective cleaning. Damage or cracks can prevent movement. To diagnose and replace it:
- Unplug the washer and open the lid.
- Remove the top cap and bolt from the agitator.
- Lift off the upper part of the agitator to examine for damage.
- Detach the lower section of the agitator if necessary.
- Replace with a new agitator assembly following instructions.
- Reassemble and test the agitation function.
2. Faulty Transmission
The transmission controls the switching between agitation and spin modes. Internal damage can cause the washer to spin without agitating. To replace it:
- Unplug the unit and disconnect hoses and mounting hardware.
- Remove screws securing the transmission.
- Detach and replace with a new transmission, ensuring proper alignment.
- Reconnect all components and verify the repair by running a cycle.
3. Drive Motor Malfunctions
The drive motor powers both the agitation and spinning functions. If only one is affected, the motor windings or electrical connections might be faulty. Use a multimeter to verify continuity and replace if necessary.
4. Faulty Lid Switch or Timer
The lid switch and timer control the cycle phases. Testing with a multimeter for continuity helps identify faults. Replace defective parts for proper cycle control.
5. Worn Motor Coupling
The motor coupling connects the motor to the transmission. Over time, it deteriorates, slipping and preventing agitation. Inspect the rubber coupling for damage and replace if worn.
Final Remarks
When your Amana washer refuses to agitate, the most common culprits include the lid switch, drive belt, motor, agitator components, coupling, and control board. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective repairs. While some fixes are manageable for DIY enthusiasts, complex electrical or mechanical repairs might require professional assistance to ensure your washer functions optimally once again.