[ironglen]

The machine just finished a load with the burnt odor, so I opened to look inside. The belt was very loose and cracked, so I replaced with a slightly (1cm less) shorter belt from the auto store. The plastic pump under the motor had an oily film on it (?lost lubricant) and the 'impeller' seemed loose inside. Upon reassembly, washer filled, then smoked (motor) a couple tries at the switch, and quit.

First off, if the motor is burnt (there was odor and the front panel has smoke marks), is it worthwhile to replace it for ~$170? Correct me if I'm wrong, but a new water pump ~$50 would seem like a good idea as well with the 12 yr old age of the unit. Will other parts need replacement as well that should lead me to buy a new machine? There appear to be very few mechanical parts, however, a look at other posts seem to convince me that there may be seals, transmission, and main bearing that will fail (eventually). On the other hand, the machine has a stainless basket and appears well made.
Any ideas, suggestions welcome.

Thanks.

Glen

[Gene]

Hi ironglen

The motor has the overload protection and if the motor stopped it does not mean it's gone. The original belt suppose to be 32 1/2" and if the belt you installed is shorter it put more tension on the motor and overload it.

Remove the belt and start the washer without the belt. If the motor works fine then I would recommend to replace the belt only and there is a great chance the washer will work.

- The part number for the new belt AP74961

- Here are the break down diagrams for the Amana washer Model LW8203L2

Good luck.
Gene.

[ironglen]

Gene,

Tried your idea and it worked! Will replace belt with correct length.

Thanks for the knowledgeable help AND the extremely fast response.

Glen