[jonboy834]

Subject: Washer – Kenmore Heavy Duty Double Action

Need to identify which model etc then need a repair manual/how to fix?

(1) Need to identify this washer - probably approx 1987 Sears Canada - but no plate on machine. (See attached jpegs)

(2) Had some black stains recently on clothes.
I reckoned they may be coming from below so tried to remove agitator to check for where dirt entering. Removed dispenser cap OK to reveal hex screw. (Pawl mechanism and teeth driving upper agitator section are fine) However, hex screw on top just rotates (even with lower agitator held stationary) so unable to dismantle further?
Any hints how to do this please?

I have good mechanical skills, tools etc
Hope you can identify and assist. Thx

[sidfink43]

We are not going to be able to give you too much assistance because of the age, unknown model number and the fact that this is a Canadian machine.

It looks like a standard Whirlpool made machine, and sounds like the threads that the agitator screw goes into are stripped. You can try lifting on the agitator and see if it comes off, but be careful, you may strain yourself or it may release suddenly and hit you.

Your problem may be leaking oil from the transmission into the basket, in which case given the age of the machine a replacement is called for. Also, if the agitator does not function correctly that would also call for replacement.

Good luck, wish we could say more.

[jonboy834]

Thanx sidfink! Much appreciated.

Re "try lifting on the agitator" - Should I try lifting up from bottom of the whole assembly ie so as to move both the top and lower portions off the spindle in one move? or is it possible to ease up the top portion on its own, then the lower?



Re"oil leak at top tranny seal" I think this may be the last of the belt dual action machines made till late 1986? I think that Model was called Kenmore Series 70?

If I can get part numbers, I believe it may be possible to replace a seal at the top of the tranny? (Some cutaways I have seen seem to have one there to stop oil/grease migrating upwards along the shaft to the basket, as you say. Any comments?

If I can't get that, then replace machine is called for - but maybe not yet :-)

[sidfink43]

Okay, I was afraid you might have the earlier model.

You can try lifting the top portion of the agitator. But I suggest that if you really want to tackle this thing you purchase this manual which I think fits your machine.

Part number: AP3884815

These are fairly standard models, so if you determine that your machine is covered by the manual and you can get it apart you should be able to order a seal.

I admire your persistence, sometimes we get caught up trying to fix a failed machine that we spend far too much time on it (although we do so because it is fun and we really want to figure it out) but given the age of your machine unless you are fixing it for fun you may want to consider replacing it.