4GWTW3000FW0 Whirlpool Washer - Instructions

This repair should be very simple "BUT" when the head of the bolt retaining the agitator system is rusted to the point where the socket doesn't work the hard part starts. After giving the issue so thought I figured the bolt had to come out some way, so out came the drill. I drilled out the head and was then able to remove the top section of the agitator system. The bottom section then would not come off the spline shaft so I had to cut the lower section in half with a dremel tool to get it out. My supportive wife came in for a look and seeing all the drilling and cutting asked when we were going to Best Buy for a new washer. You can imagine how that conversation want, she left, and the repair went on. With the bolt exposed I drilled it and used an easyout to get it out. The threads were cleaned out with a 5/16-24 tap. The easy part was assembling the new part that was as simple as stacking them in and installing the retainer bolt. One additional thing done was to replace the factory bolt with a stainless steel bolt and washer assembled to the factory bolt seal so if the job needs to be done again the bolt will not be rusted.

Finally figured that cap on top of the agitator was just a friction fit. It just pulled off with fingers. Removed plastic inner seal below top cap. Found a 7/16" nut requiring a long strait socket wrench to remove it, turning it counter-clockwise. Removed screw with a magnet; reached both hands down to bottom of the agitator, pried with finger upwards. After a little jiggling it lifted right off. Kept the screw, rubber washer that fit under it, cap and other small pieces in a safe place. Ordered a new agitator assembly. It arrived after about 5 days in central NC. The new agitator seemed like a replica of mine. Slipped the assembly on the drive post, replaced the screw that holds it in place and tightened it very firmly but not with great strength. Replaced the plastic inner cap with my fingers and the top plastic cap. Started the machine and it worked well to wash cloths. (I consulted the directions listed on the computer parts site, which were helpful.)

Easy, If your drive block has an open top, it's worn. Look at a picture of a new drive block and compare. If it doesn't match, then you need a new drive block. Note: Also check the drive clutch and clutch liners or pads...they may be worn. In my case it was the drive block this time. So to start, take off the fabric softenner dispenser in the center of the washer. Then pull out the seal. then remove the bolt. and pull off the agitator assembly. after that tap off the lock nut with a punch and hammer or if you have the special spanner wrench tool, use that. Once removed, pull out the inner tub and then pull the drive block off the shaft. Put the new drive block on and reverse the procedure from there. Tap the lock nut tight with the punch and hammer while re-installing. I'm so glad I did this repair. $15 is so much better than just giving in and buying a new washer!!!

NOTE ! When looking up part and action to take be advised there are two models of agitators. One [the first you look up ] shows you how to repair the agitator . Mine was not this style . As I watched the video mine did not come a part , and when I tried to remove top part clearly it was not the same. Further review of parts I found a complete non serviceable agitator . As I watched the video this confirmed my style of part. As for the repair, once I found out I had to order a complete unit it was simple. Remove the top cup to expose cover, then use needle nose pliers to remove the cover to gain access to the bolt . The cover has an "O" ring to seal liquid from the bolt , save and clean it up and put a little lube on it to reseal same. I can't remember the size , either a 1/2 or 9/16 socket with a 12 in. extension and ratchet will work to remove the bolt. Put a small amount of lube on the shaft , install the agitator ,secure nut , install cover and cup and you are good to go. Hope this helped out and be sure to view the the proper video.