[jroske]

I have a Kenmore (Whirlpool) washing machine that will not spin. It just sits on the spin cycle and buzzes. I had a tech come out and dianosed a bad motor. I ordered a new motor from appliance parts pros. Installed it and recieved the same result. I called customer service and a new motor was sent out to me. The second new motor was installed and does the same thing. Is it possible I received two bad motors or should I be looking at something else like a switch, timer or relay?

[magician59]

Did the tech test the lid switch? It could also be a bad start capacitor. Disconnect the motor from the gearbox and see if it runs while disconnected. Make sure no wires are crossed or touching any metal as you do this.

[jroske]

The lid switch is working because it will not to anything unless it is pressed. The motor has been off during the test. The motor also has a connector to only connect one way. Is the starter capacitor located on the motor or somewhere else?

[magician59]

On some of the older models, it is attached to the inside of the rear panel. The newer machines have them on the tub support near the motor. Test it by pulling the motor off the machine, but leave it connected to the wiring connector. Select "spin". The lid switch has to be closed. If the motor doesn't immediately start, give it a little assistance by turning the shaft (be very careful: You're really close to 120VAC. If the motor does start on its own, replace the capacitor. If you have to help it, replace them both.

[jroske]

I found the Capacitor. Our local shop has one in stock. I have 2 "new" motors on hand so I will give it a shot. Thanks for your help so far.

[jroske]

Originally Posted by jroske

I found the Capacitor. Our local shop has one in stock. I have 2 "new" motors on hand so I will give it a shot. Thanks for your help so far.

Installed the capacitor and the motor will just sit and buzz on the spin cycle. Agitate cycle does work. Could the timer be bad? What are the odds of receiving 2 bad motors?

[magician59]

Very slim odds of two bad motors. There's gotta be something we're missing...Can you freely turn the gearbox shaft in the spin direction with the motor disconnected?

[jroske]

Originally Posted by magician59

Very slim odds of two bad motors. There's gotta be something we're missing...Can you freely turn the gearbox shaft in the spin direction with the motor disconnected?

All three motors (1 old, 2 new)turn freely but there is more resistance when I attempt to "spin start" it with the power applied. Could the switch be bad?

[magician59]

I was referring to the shaft on the washer. If the motors work while uncoupled from the machine, the trouble is in the gearbox.

[jroske]

Originally Posted by magician59

I was referring to the shaft on the washer. If the motors work while uncoupled from the machine, the trouble is in the gearbox.

The motors will not start while they are off the machine with the timer in the spin cycle but will engage most of the time in the agitation cycle.