Washer does not spin or agitate

you need a new lid switch google model number and order new one

Hello.

Whirlpool washers are available in many colors and with different options, including various tub sizes, front or top load styles, a fabric care system, high efficiency wash features and energy, time and water sensors. The washers may be purchased in department stores, home repair stores and online. Many are Energy Star rated. However, the washing machine may malfunction occasionally and not agitate or spin. If this occurs, some troubleshooting steps may be useful in solving the problem.

1 sure the washer has electrical power and is connected to a grounded electrical supply. Replace or reset the circuit breaker or fuse if needed, particularly in event of a recent power outage. Make sure the washer lid is closed tightly before use; the washer won't work if the lid is open.

2 void selecting the following cycles: "Extra Low,, "Low," "No Spin", "Delicate," "Casual/Perm Press" or "Hand Washables." All of these cycles use little to no spinning or agitating during the cycle. Select the highest possible spin cycle for the fabrics being washed.

3 pen the washer lid and redistribute the load; unbalanced loads may cause the washer to stop or slow down. Add additional items if only one large item,
such as a rug or blanket, is in the washer.

4 Use only the recommended amount of laundry detergent, as excess sussing can reduce the overall spin speed or cause the washer to stop agitating. If the Whirlpool washer is a high-efficiency model, use only high-efficiency laundry detergent.

5 Examine the drain hose and straighten if kinked. Remove any possible obstructions and ensure the end of the hose is no more than 96 inches from the floor, as this will cause water to flow back into the washing machine.

Thanks.

Whirlpool / Kenmore washers use a "Lid Switch" as a safety device.

On older models the switch would stop the spin cycle when the lid is raised.

Newer models stop both the Agitate and Spin cycles.

If this is a Sears washer 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.

either bad clutch / brake or bad transmission

I don't have a solution to this but I have almost the exact same problem - washed a runner bathroom rug last night, today it drains but won't spin and I'm having trouble diagnosing further or disassembling... <!-- from fixya rte -->

If this is a relatively newer Whirlpool model, it does not use a drive belt. Whirlpool model top loader washers generally use a motor coupling in place of a drive belt and are referred to as "direct-drive" washers. Since you mentioned the washer stopped working while you were washing a rug, you may have broken the motor coupling. The coupler is located between the drive motor and gearcase (transmission) and will wear out with age. Larger loads can put added stress on the coupler and can cause premature wear and tear. The following link explains how to access the motor coupling and replace it, if necessary:


http://www.fixya.com/support/r3574231-replacing_a_motor_coupling

The newer version motor couplers are more resilient and resist breaking better than the older ones. The part number is included with the instructions I provided. Replacement parts (if required) can be purchased at any of the following websites:

searspartsdirect.com
pcappliancerepair.com
appliancepartspros.com
repairclinic.com

All these sites are reputable and offer great service with competitive pricing, so shop and compare. The first three sites I listed also include helpful exploded view parts diagrams to assist you in locating and properly identifying the parts you need. If you do not wish to order parts on line, use the part numbers I provided and go to your nearest appliance parts retailer. The coupler is commonly sold as part of their in-store inventory. The average cost of a motor coupling is about $15.

If you have any questions, please post back with your MODEL NUMBER and let me know. I hope this helps you.

Replace the water valve. A solenoid is bad on it.

Hi, This washer does not have a belt. While the washer is agitating, if you lift the lid will it stop? Some models will agitate but not spin if the lid is up. It sounds to me like the lid switch might be going bad.
If you will get me a model #, I can look this up for you and give you a better idea.

Vic

What is this machine? If whirlpool you need to check the drect drive motor couple. they break when bathroom rugs with the rubber on bottom that cause this about 90% of the time.

  These older units had an insert in the agitator that would strip out.  Remove your agitator and take to a parts store. They should be able to help you out.