If your Amana washing machine isn’t moving during the washing cycle, it’s painful and tiring to wash your clothes by hand. There are a few things you can take to fix the issue on your own instead of seeking help from an expert or buying new washing machines. In this article, we’ll guide you through the most frequent causes of the Amana washer that doesn’t stir and give steps-by-step directions on how to solve the problem. From a broken drive belt or a defective lid switch, we’ll cover it all, saving you time and money in the process. If your Amana washer isn’t moving do not fret. We’ll help you fix it.
Agitator
In the top loading washing machine of Amana the agitator is used to move the clothes through the water and detergent. It is powered by the output shaft of the transmission. To ensure a snug fit, the output shaft is usually made splined. The central part of the plastic agitator is an identical spine. Depending on the brand, the agitator can be a single-piece unit or a dual-action two-piece agitator. How to check the agitator on an Amana washing machine:
- Remove the Amana washing machine from the power source.
- Remove the fabric softener dispenser or top cover, depending on the model in order to access the agitator. Try to manually turn the agitator. Once it has been splined you should experience some resistance.
- Take the agitator off the appliance to observe it more closely. The bolt that threads onto the on top of the transmission shaft is what holds the majority of agitators in place. Some models use a small set screw located inside the barrel of the agitator just above the base to anchor the agitator to shaft, while some will use a rubber O-ring for a tight fitting.
- If your agitator is damaged or worn in any way, particularly on the splines or you experience little to no resistance when turning it manually you’ll require Amana replacement agitator.
Agitator Directional Gears
Top loading Amana washers with dual-action agitators may cause the upper section of the agitator’s motor to be disengaged from its bottom. Hard plastic directional cogs, or “dogs” operate the upper part of the agitator. They may wear out from heavy use. If the top part of your agitator moves in either direction or makes sounds that grate during the wash cycle, then the directional cogs may require replacement. How do you check the directional cogs of the Amana washer:
- The model you have is dependent on it. disconnect the plug of your Amana washer and take out the dispenser for fabric softener.
- Locate your agitator cogs. It is possible to take off the cap of the agitator, the top, or base depending on your model to get access to the cogs.
- Check the cogs’ visual appearance to determine if there are damages, discolorations or wear. You should also look to look for any cogs that are missing.
- If your cogs show any of the symptoms mentioned in the previous paragraphs, you’ll require a set of Amana replacement directional cogs.
Agitator Coupler & Cap & Bolt
Some top loading washers from Amana have a coupler between their transmission shaft and the agitator. To match the transmission the drive coupler is split in the inside and out. The drive coupling could be damaged if your Amana washer emits an ear-splitting sound in wash cycles or if the agitator isn’t turning freely. How to examine and replace the agitator coupler on the Amana washing-machine:
- Before starting the process, unplug the Amana washer from its electricity source.
- To gain access to the agitator coupler, it is necessary to remove the top cover or the fabric softener dispenser, according to the model. Then you will need remove the agitator.
- Unthread the bolt holding the coupler to the transmission shaft and take it off the appliance. Inspect the coupler for cracks and burnt spots, as well as wear corrosion, damage, and cracks.
- If you spot any of these problems, you’ll require a Amana replacement coupler for agitators.
Direct Drive Motor Coupling
Some top load washers made by Amana have a direct drive motor coupling that transfers energy from the motor to the transmission. The drive coupling connects the motor and the transmission. It consists of two drive forks made of plastic with a rubber coupling between them. The drive shaft connects to one fork, and the other one is connected to with the input shaft of the transmission. When the motor shaft spins the rubber coupling between the drive forks absorbs the forces to keep the forks from breaking. Normal usage will cause wear to the coupling. Eventually the drive forks will slip and not engage with the transmission or clutch. One sign of a failing motor coupling in a washing machine is that it fills up and drains normally, but is unable to spin or agitate. How to test the direct drive motor coupling on an Amana washing machine:
- Before starting, disconnect your appliance from power sources.
- To examine the coupling of your motor, find the coupling and pull it out. To access it you’ll have to open your Amana washing machine’s cabinet. you might also have to remove the drain pump and/or motor based on the model you have.
- After you’ve removed your item, check the coupling carefully for signs of damage, wear cracks, cracks, etc.
- You’ll require a replacement direct motor coupling Amana when you notice any of these signs.
Drive Belt
Top loading washers from Amana have an engine that drives the transmission. If the machine isn’t moving as it should, then the belt may be at fault. How to determine the condition of your Amana washer drive belt is in need of being replaced:
- After unplugging your Amana washer, remove the access panel or cabinet for the purpose of locating the drive belt.
- It is possible to disconnect the clamps which hold the belt in place, and then remove the drive belt from the drive motor.
- Check the drive belt’s condition. You’re looking for indications of wear, damage, burning or fraying.
- If your belt displays any of the signs mentioned above, you need a Amana replacement drive belt.
Transmission
The transmission of Amana’s top load washer converts the motor’s rotating motion to the back and forth motion that is required for the agitator. Transmissions are equipped with an input shaft which is driven by the motor directly , or via the belt. An output shaft drives the agitator. If your shaft that drives the agitator doesn’t turn, first check that the input shaft being driven. If the input shaft is turning but the agitator shaft isn’t move then the transmission could be not working properly. Most manufacturers do not supply internal parts , so a full transmission will be required. Also, you should be ready to replace the tub seal that is located near the point where the shaft is inserted into the tub. How to examine the transmission of Amana washing machine:
- Before inspecting your transmission ensure that the problem isn’t caused by the agitator itself or any other component. If you’ve eliminated the agitator, unplug your washer, remove the cabinet, then locate your transmission.
- Once you’ve located the problem with the transmission reconnect it and then run the wash cycle to confirm that the issue is resolved. A damaged transmission can make odd noises when operating. Use caution when performing this step as the internal components of your dryer are exposed.
- You’ll need a new Amana transmission in the event that the unit becomes noisy.
Drive Motor
All top load washers manufactured by Amana utilize motors to drive the transmission for agitating. Amana washers utilize a reversing motor. This means that the machine rotates in one direction for spinning and draining , and in the opposite direction to agitate. The motor could operate properly in the spin direction , but it is not operating in the agitation direction. How to test an Amana washing-machine drive motor
- Remove the power source from your Amana appliance before beginning as you’ll be handling electrical components.
- The cabinet that you have removed from the Amana washer to locate and remove the motor that drives it. You’ll need to unplug the wires that connect to the motor to remove it from the appliance, do this by pulling on the steel connectors, not the wires.
- Your multimeter should be in Rx1 mode. Test for continuity by placing the probes on the motor’s terminals. A reading should be zero or close to zero.
- Install one probe on the terminal to check the connection to ground. Another probe should be placed on the housing of the drive motor. You should not receive any indication during this test.
- If your readings diverge from those mentioned above, you need an Amana replacement drive motor.
Timer
The motor that drives the drive is controlled by the timer lid, the timer, the water level, and selector switches. The purpose of the timer is to provide the proper power to turn on the motor in the proper direction. If the motor that drives your washer does not receive electricity during the wash phase of the cycle, then the timer is the cause. How to test the timer on the Amana washing-machine using a multimeter
- Like most repairs, start by disconnection of your Amana washer from its electricity source.
- To locate the timer, you must remove the control panel from your appliance and remove the panel at the rear.
- For testing the washer, pull on the connectors which are not metal and remove the wires that connect to the timer.
- To check continuity, you can use a multimeter with the setting Rx1. The result should be of zero or close to zero. If you do not receive this reading, you’ll need a Amana replacement timer.
Lid Switch
A safety feature in top-load Amana washers is the lid switch. The lid switch is situated beneath the main top. It’s connected to the motor circuit. It must be switched on in order in order for the motor’s operation. When the lid is shut, an extension or pin on the lid presses against the lever for the lid and shuts off the switch. The lid switch should be examined if the Amana washing machine doesn’t move or the motor doesn’t have any energy. How to test the lid switch on an Amana washer:
- Start by unplugging the Amana washer. Then, take off the top panel.
- Locate the switch and verify that it’s working as the lid is closed. To verify if it is removed, pull the switch.
- Set your multimeter on Rx1 and make sure you touch to the terminals with probes. Press the button, and hold it down. The multi-meter should show the reading as zero or near zero.
- If your test yields an error, you’ll require a Amana replacement lid switch.
Selector Switch
The selector switch is utilized on certain models to control the speed of the motor drive. If the switch malfunctions, it could stop the motor from operating. How to test the selector switch on an Amana washing machine using the multimeter:
- Unplug your Amana washing machine prior to starting because you’ll be working with electrical components.
- Find the switch to select your Amana appliance and pull the switch off. It is likely to be anchored to the frame of your Amana washer. To get inside the cabinet, it is necessary to take it out of its entirety or a fraction of it.
- Utilizing a multi-meter with the Rx1 setting, you are going to test one button at a given time for continuity. Connect the probes to the terminals, and then press the first button. The reading should shift from infinity to zero. Keep the probes attached to the terminals, push another button, and the reading will return to zero.
- If your results from the test differ from those above You will require a Amana replacement switch for the selector.
Water Level Switch
The water level switch in a top-load Amana washer is used to select the correct water level. The switch is also used as a source of power for the drive motor. Once the proper water level is achieved, the switch will remove the water inlet valve and will supply power to the drive motor circuit. If your washer fills but doesn’t agitate, the pressure switch is in error. How to test the water level switch inside the Amana washing machine.
- Remove the Amana washing machine from its power source.
- The water level switch is usually found behind the control panel , but could also be located at the sump area below the tubs.
- Before you replace the switch, be sure to take off the air dome hose. The hose should be submerged in water and cover it with a seal. After that, blow air through one end and check for bubbles. Also, check for any problems or signs of wear.
- If the air dome hose you are using isn’t leaking, you might need a new water level switch from Amana.