Direct Drive Coupling Troubleshooting and Tips

Direct Drive Washer Motor Coupler - A Life of Hard  Knocks

A  washing machine motor coupler is used on direct drive washing machines instead of a belt. Common part numbers for this part are 285753285753A  and 285852.
In the case of many Whirlpool brand clothes washers the motor coupler transfers the motion from the motor to the transmission. Since the motor coupler is the primary link between the two, it is a common point of failure in washing machines.


Direct Drive Coupling Troubleshooting and  Tips


If  you are like the majority of the population and have little knowledge of appliance  part or appliance  repair, then how does one know if your washer motor coupler is broken? Motor couplers are a commonly broken part. In Whirlpool and Whirlpool brand washing machines like Kitchen Aid, Roper, Estate by Whirlpool, Kirkland Signature, Ingles, Kenmore and others the coupler connects the motor and transmission and endures a lot of stress. Most of this stress is when the motor starts or comes to a stop.

The  primary indicator that your coupler has been compromised is that your motor is running but there is no movement transferred to the transmission. There is no movement or spinning of the agitator and you can hear the motor running. In this case the motor will be running but NOTHING else happens. The most obvious culprit is that your motor coupler has cracked. Now the fun part, Safety first! Unplug the washing machine. Remove the top of the washing machine by unscrewing or use some sort of tool to pry the top off. The next step is to remove the front of the washer and set it aside. Then simply remove the clips that hold the motor and pump in place. Also, loosen the bolts that hold the motor in place.

Now  you should be able to locate the coupler  and inspect it for damage. If it is damaged, make sure you replace it with the coupler that is recommended for your model. All of these applianceparts are available at steeply discounted prices at Priced Right Parts. After you have replaced the coupler, re assemble the washer and run the machine  through series of cycles to make sure it is working correctly. If so, Congratulations!

You have just saved yourself a service call and lots of money, maybe hundreds or dollars. Just in case, while you have the washer apart, you notice another problem, any other appliance parts are available at Priced Right Parts too.
 
We hoped this guide helped you.
PricedRightParts team