How to Fix a Direct Drive Motor for a Washer That is Noisy and Leave Marks on Clothes

Have you been hearing a vibrating noise while your washer is running? This may be caused by the direct drive motor coupling. This coupling transfers power from the motor to the transmission, and over time the rubber component can wear out, which causes the other pieces to rattle and vibrate. You can use the information below, such as the sound clips and video guides, to help you determine if the sound your washer is making is due to a failing direct drive motor coupling.

What is a Direct Drive Motor Coupling and Where is it Located?

Some top-load washers use a direct drive motor coupling to transfer power from the motor to the transmission. This coupling consists of two drive forks made of plastic, one attached to the shaft of the drive motor, and one attached to the input shaft of the transmission. Then there is a rubber coupling between them that protects the forks by absorbing the torque. Over time, the coupling can wear out and allow those plastic forks to slide and vibrate. The coupling can also get broken when the spin basket is impeded, or the transmission seizes.

General Location of the Direct Drive Motor Coupling in a Washer

What Type of Noise Can You Expect?

If you are hearing a vibrating sound, it likely means that the rubber coupling has worn out. If this happens, the forks no longer have a protective buffer and will slide around and vibrate.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect the Direct Drive Motor Coupling in a Washing Machine

1. Disconnect the power and water supply.
2. Open your washer’s cabinet and/or place the washer on its back.
3. You may also need to remove the drain pump and/or motor depending on your model. With the motor out of the way, you can now access and remove the couplings from the transmission and the motor shaft.
4. Once you have removed it, inspect your coupling for any signs of damage, wear, or cracking.
5. If you find any of the above symptoms, you will need a replacement direct drive motor coupling.

How to Install a New Direct Drive Motor Coupling

1. Push the first piece of the new coupling onto the transmission shaft by tapping it into place, ensuring that it is flush.
2. Install the round piece of the coupling, and then reattach the motor bracket.
3. Tap the third and final piece of the coupling onto the motor, and then the motor can be reinstalled onto the transmission.
4. Ensure that the legs on the coupling are inserted into the slots of the round piece.
5. With all the coupling pieces now connected, the motor can be clamped in place and the washer reassembled.

Next: Troubleshooting the Shock Absorbers

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