Troubleshooting and Repair Guide for Amana Washers: When They Won’t Agitate or Spin

Understanding the Agitation Mechanism in Your Amana Washer

Imagine the satisfaction of tossing your laundry into the washing machine, eagerly anticipating fresh, spotless clothes in just an hour. But upon opening the lid after the cycle, you’re met with a disappointing sight: your clothes are still submerged in dirty water, with stubborn stains untouched. This frustrating scenario often points to an agitation malfunction within your washer.

The agitator is the core component responsible for cleaning your clothes effectively. Positioned inside the wash drum, it moves in a rhythmic back-and-forth or rotational manner, rubbing fabric against the walls of the tub, dislodging dirt and grime. When this vital part fails or encounters issues, your laundry may not receive the thorough cleaning it needs. If your Amana washer refuses to agitate, don’t worry—many problems can be diagnosed and fixed with some troubleshooting steps. This comprehensive guide walks you through the most common causes of agitation failure and provides detailed solutions to restore your washer’s performance.

Step-by-Step Solutions for an Amana Washer That Won’t Agitate or Spin

How to Fix an Amana Washer That Won’t Agitate or Spin
How to Fix an Amana Washer That Won’t Agitate But Will Spin
Conclusion

Common Causes When Your Washer Won’t Agitate or Spin

If your washer is not agitating, it might also affect its spinning ability. Here are key components to investigate, along with detailed steps to troubleshoot and repair each:

1. Faulty Lid Switch

The lid switch acts as a safety interlock, preventing the washer from operating if the lid is open. Located just beneath the top lid, it features a small extension that presses against a lever when the lid is closed, completing an electrical circuit that signals the machine to start or continue its cycle.

A defective lid switch can cause the washer to remain silent on agitation and spinning functions. To replace a malfunctioning lid switch:

Unplug the washer from the power source for safety.
Remove the top panel to access the switch wiring and mounting screws.
Disconnect the wiring connectors attached to the switch.
Unscrew and carefully detach the faulty switch from its mounting bracket.
Install the new switch in the same position, ensuring it is securely mounted.
Reconnect the wiring connectors to the new switch terminals.
Replace the top panel and restore power to test the repair.

2. Damaged Drive Belt

The drive belt is an essential element that links the motor to the transmission, transferring rotational power necessary for both agitation and spinning. Over time, normal wear and tear can cause this belt to crack, fray, or slip, leading to agitation failure.

Signs of a worn drive belt include squealing noises during operation, a burning rubber smell, or visible damage upon inspection. To replace the drive belt:

Unplug the washer and access the rear or bottom panel.
Locate the drive belt and examine it closely for cracks or deterioration.
Release tension by pivoting the motor or loosening the tensioner pulley.
Remove the old belt carefully from the pulleys and motor shaft.
Loop the new belt around the pulleys according to the manufacturer’s routing diagram.
Reapply tension by re-positioning the motor or tensioner pulley to ensure proper grip.
Manually rotate the drum to verify the belt seats correctly.
Reassemble the panel and run a test cycle to confirm successful repair.

3. Motor Problems

The motor is the heart of your washer’s operation, powering both agitation and spinning through separate windings and mechanisms. Internal faults, such as burnt windings or electrical damage, can prevent the motor from functioning properly.

Diagnosing motor issues involves visual inspection for cracks or burnt areas, and testing the windings with a multimeter for continuity. Additionally, check all wiring connections for security. If the motor is found to be defective:

Disconnect the power and remove the necessary panels to access the motor mounts.
Disconnect electrical connectors and any mounting hardware.
Replace the faulty motor with a compatible new unit, ensuring all connections are secure.
Reassemble the panels and run a test cycle to verify proper operation.

4. Worn Agitator Dogs or Cogs

In many top-load Amana washers, small plastic components called agitator dogs or cogs connect the upper and lower parts of the agitator, allowing it to move in specific directions for effective cleaning. Over prolonged use, these parts can become rounded, cracked, or worn out, leading to a failure in agitation.

Symptoms include loud clicking or grinding noises during agitation, or the agitator not moving smoothly. To replace the agitator dogs:

Unplug the washer and lift the lid to access the agitator.
Remove the cap and bolt securing the top of the agitator.
Lift off the upper part of the agitator to expose the spline and the worn dogs.
Unscrew and detach the lower part of the agitator.
Remove the worn plastic dogs and replace them with new ones, ensuring they fit snugly.
Reassemble the agitator by reversing the removal steps, confirming the parts are correctly aligned.
Secure the top cap and bolt tightly.
Plug in the washer and run a test cycle to confirm proper agitation.

5. Loose or Damaged Agitator Mounting

The agitator must be firmly attached to the drive shaft for effective operation. If it becomes loose or wobbly, the washer may spin without agitation. To diagnose this issue, try gently rocking the top of the agitator; any play indicates looseness.

To fix a loose agitator:

Unplug the washer for safety.
Remove the fabric softener dispenser and the bolt holding the agitator.
Lift off the agitator assembly, inspecting the internal spline and mounting hardware.
Tighten any loose bolts or replace worn internal splines as necessary.
Ensure the agitator fits tightly onto the drive shaft before reassembling.
Reinstall the bolt and test by running a cycle.

6. Faulty Control Circuitry

The control board is the electronic brain of your washing machine, managing cycle operations, agitation, and spin functions. Damage to this circuit—such as burnt components, faulty relays, or loose connections—can cause irregular or incomplete operation.

Visual inspection for burnt smells, scorch marks, or bulging components can indicate issues. Using a multimeter to check voltage outputs and signals can help diagnose faults. If a defective control board is identified:

Unplug the washer and open the control panel.
Label and disconnect all wiring connectors from the old control board.
Remove mounting screws and carefully extract the faulty board.
Install the new control board securely in place.
Reconnect all wiring as per the labels and instructions.
Reassemble the control panel and power on the washer.
Run a test cycle to ensure all functions operate correctly.

Addressing a Washer That Won’t Agitate but Will Spin

If your Amana washer completes spinning but fails to agitate, the root cause may differ from the previous issues. Here are specific components to examine:

1. Broken or Worn Agitator

Even if the washer spins normally, a broken agitator won’t move clothes effectively. Visual inspection for cracks, broken splines, or damage is essential. Replacement involves removing the top cap and bolt, lifting the agitator, and installing a new one following the reverse procedure.

2. Faulty Transmission

The transmission controls the transition between agitation and spinning. Damage here can prevent the agitator from moving while still allowing the drum to spin. To repair:

Unplug the washer and disconnect components.
Remove the transmission from the drive system.
Install a new transmission, ensuring proper alignment and secure connections.
Test the washer post-repair for proper agitation function.

3. Drive Motor Malfunction

The motor has separate windings for agitation and spin. If only agitation is affected, the motor windings responsible for that function may be faulty. Testing with a multimeter and replacing the motor if needed will restore proper operation.

4. Malfunctioning Lid Switch or Timer

These components regulate agitation cycles. Testing for continuity with a multimeter can identify faults. Replacements are straightforward once identified.

5. Worn or Broken Motor Coupling

The motor coupling transmits power from the motor to the transmission. It can deteriorate over time, slipping or breaking. Inspection involves checking for cracks or wear, with replacement necessary if damaged.

Final Tips and Recommendations

Proper diagnosis is critical before attempting repairs. While some fixes are manageable DIY projects, others may require professional service—especially those involving electrical components or internal mechanical parts. Always unplug your washer before performing any repairs, and consult your model’s service manual for specific instructions.

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