Washer stops @12:00 on dial and will not agitate or spin unless manually dialed or reset at another load level and starts all over

1. Turn the washer off.
2. Set the mode selector dial to NORMAL.
3. Turn the dial counter clockwise ONE click (LEFT), clockwise THREE clicks (RIGHT), counter clockwise ONE click (LEFT) then clockwise ONE click (RIGHT).
4. Now press the start button.
5. All the cycle indicating lights should be illuminated.
6. Press the Start Stop button once.
7. Rotate the dial until Rinse, Wash, and Stop light illuminate.
8. Turn the washer off and unplug it for 10 seconds.
9. Finally, turn on the washer and it should now be reset.
10. Run a test load empty to be sure the reset worked. If not perform the reset procedure one more time.

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.

Newer model Whirlpool / Kenmore washers use a Lid Switch as a safety device. Unless the switch senses that the lid on the washer is closed, the washer will neither agitate nor spin.

Older models only used the switch during the spin cycle.

Try to bypass the Lid Switch by removing the Console and jumping the two outermost pins on the switch.

This is a Whirlpool PDF on how these washers operate. It has a diagram on jumping the switch as well as a detailed section on how the transmission works.

https://secured.whirlpool.com/Service/SrvTechAdm.nsf/2cd44500d572193285256a45004fd9d6/f7e2147fa98b28cf85257122007475cb/$FILE/L-55.pdf


It also has a troubleshooting guide.

To bypass the switch, you only have to disconnect the power to the washer, tilt the console back, unplug the switch and using an short piece of insulated wire, jump the two outermost contacts on the connector coming from the console and plug the washer back in.

Following is a description of how to gain access to the console and how to remove the cabinet if necessary.

http://www.american-appliance.com/catalog/newsdesk_info.php?newsPath=16&newsdesk_id=131&osCsid=913ba652cd504fb162f87d892bcb427b

With the jumper in place, try to re-start the washer.

If it works, the Lid Switch is a relatively inexpensive part and only requires you to access the console and remove the cabinet.

you need to replace the water level switch

Hi, Do you know if the washer spins at all?
It sounds like the coupler has gone bad.
Please let me know if it spins at all.
I can send yyou instructions on changing the coupler.

Vic

HIm this is a faulty timer control. simply replacing this device will fix this issue.

CLICK HERE

yes this sounds like a timer it sounds like it is getting stuck in the cycle. replace the timer and this will clear up the problem

Do you hear the ticking of the dial moving? if so it could be that the points aren't getting connection to cycle it threw the various cycles

Hello
Welcome to fixya.
I'm Huuum and happy to assist you,

The washer is equipped with a lid switch failure detector. If the lid switch
should malfunction, the detector will stop operations for your safety.

Read below

First,turn the control dial to proper cycle and pull dial out to start the washer. If
equipped with buttons, be sure they are fully depressed.
Close lid and pull dial out to start the washer. For your safety, washer will
not agitate or spin unless the lid is closed.
The washer is equipped with a lid switch failure detector. If the lid switch
should malfunction, the detector will stop operations for your safety. Call for
service.
Pauses are normal. Wait and see if the washer will start again.


Please remember to leave a rating before you go!
Thank you

Hello
Welcome to fixya.
I'm Huuum and happy to assist you,

The washer is equipped with a lid switch failure detector. If the lid switch
should malfunction, the detector will stop operations for your safety.

Read below

First,turn the control dial to proper cycle and pull dial out to start the washer. If
equipped with buttons, be sure they are fully depressed.
Close lid and pull dial out to start the washer. For your safety, washer will
not agitate or spin unless the lid is closed.
The washer is equipped with a lid switch failure detector. If the lid switch
should malfunction, the detector will stop operations for your safety. Call for
service.
Pauses are normal. Wait and see if the washer will start again.


Please remember to leave a rating before you go!
Thank you