I have a Kenmore top-load washer (110.26902691) and just replaced the coupler. Ran a cycle and had a burning smell. Removed the motor and blew air thru it to remove dust and used contact cleaner. tried it agani and still have a burning smell. The smell was not present before changing the coupler.

Check the plug on the motor may have a burned wire at the connector

It could be the grease. It could run without noise if it was not installed all the way. Here is a link for properly installing Motor coupler video Now if everything looks right it is probally just the grease.

This assumes that you have a basic Kenmore / Whirlpool top load, direct drive, neutral drain (it doesn't spin until the pump removes most of the water) machine.

First, see the Sears parts site for your washer:
http://www.searspartsdirect.com/partsdirect/index.action

Enter your model number (###.######) and you'll see a list of major sub-components with diagrams and parts.

Kenmore / Whirlpool top load, direct drive washers use a "Motor Coupler" between the motor and transmission. It's used as a fail safe device and consists of three parts. Two of the parts are the same, plastic units with three prongs that fit on one of the motor output shafts and the other on the transmission input shaft. Between them is a rubber piece with six holes. The power from the motor is transmitted through the rubber piece to the transmission.

If the motor coupler is broken, or worn, the motor may not be able to send full power to the transmission for agitating or spinning.

See the following for how to remove the cabinet, pump, motor and motor mounting plate to inspect and replace the motor coupler.

http://www.american-appliance.com/catalog/newsdesk_info.php?newsPath=16&newsdesk_id=137

If the coupler looks damaged, it's a relatively easy fix.

Pry the plastic pieces from the motor and transmission. Some people use a claw hammer but I've found that using a small (6 inch) pry bar works well.

Carefully fit the plastic pieces over the motor and transmission shafts and press them in place (Use a 1/2" of larger socket to put pressure equally around the pieces.

Put the rubber piece on the transmission plastic piece.

Replace the motor mounting plate.

Carefully line up the plastic prongs on the motor based plastic piece to the three un-used holes in the rubber piece. If they don't line up right, the coupler could be damaged.

Mount the motor, don't forget the two screws, put the pump back on the motor and use its' clips.

Put the cabinet back on, don't forget to plug the lid switch back in and re-mount the console.

you had the clutch coupling replaced sometimes i have noticed that the smell will last a few loads but no more than that

Could be one of three issues, timer, capacitor, or the most like canidate the motor assm. Usually 90% of the time, its that motor. Those motors are pretty expensive (part number 389248) and you need to replace motor coupler (part number 285753A) when you change it.

I have the exact same problem, which is why I found this post. Did it stop, or did you find a solution?

Hi,

Yes, the problem is fixed. With helpful online info and my husband, the problem was a coupler that needed to be replaced.

Thanks again,

Jill

ok try this look under the washer between the motor and the transmission is a motor coupler it may have broken to get to it you need to remoe the motor and the pump very easy job but look between the motor and the trany and you will be able to see the coupler it should be two plastic coggs with a rubber coupler this is usually the problem

Hi Karen,
It is not normal to smell a burning smell after a new coupler install. If the pump is not held on the motor with two clamps then it will raise off of the motor and strip the pump. This would cause the burning smell and also cause you to need a new pump. Before you use it again install the second pump clamp. If you cant find it let me know and we can ship you one over. Contact us anytime m-f 9-5. (865)945-3808
Anderson Appliance Parts and Service
Michael Anderson (Owner)

no check wiring connector at the motor and the capasitor connectoions, lid switch connections