Started having trouble when trying to compact yesterday. Have to push "on" and not "start". Goes through cycle until the very end and starts banging. Must push "off" to stop. Is this the switch? (Kind of read in other posts with the same problem.) How do I get to the switch? I have the instruction book but it does not indicate how to open up. Is it worth trying to fix myself?

Hi Gene, and Moscotty,

I have nearly the same compactor model GX900QPLB0, and I would described the same problem. Unit starts only with "on" button deployed. Momentary start does nothing. After starting unit will ram down and cycle (reverse) at bottom of travel or compact load then start upward travel. At top of travel unit continues to thump or make tamping noise until I manually use stop button.
I thought I had this diagnosed as the Top Limit Switch and replaced that but still has the problem. The troubleshooting guide lists the top limit switch or the momentary contact switch as probable cause.

My question is : Can I check the control panel switch assembly for contact failure? How?

Thanks - (Neal) olchev

That was it! Unit functions as new, now.
Thanks, Gene

My Trash Compactor Whirlpool Model #SH0800002 when we turn it on it wont' turn off automatically, I guess the trash masher stays down and we have to turn the knob off. Please help

My stand alone tc is 7 years old. For 6 years I used the "off" button to stop the ram while it was at it's lowest level to stablize (for lack of a better term) the trash so it wouldn't pop back up. Now the "on" button is stuck (in position), and the "off" button doesn't work. The tc works, I just can't use the "off" button to keep the ram depressed. If I were going to replace the part, would it be part #AP3084656? Could it be that the buttons are stuck and would it be possible to un-stick them by removing the switch assembly. I've got the control panel removed and see the switch but really don't want to go any further without my husband's help.
Thanks,
Monica