This DIY repair guide shows how to replace the motor centrifugal switch on a trash compactor. The motor centrifugal switch controls the direction of the drive motor, which moves the ram up and down to compact trash. If the switch breaks, the ram travels down but won't move back up. Replace a broken motor centrifugal switch with the manufacturer-approved trash compactor part.

Use these steps to replace the motor centrifugal switch on Kenmore, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Gladiator, JennAir and Maytag trash compactors.

Instructions

1. Pull the trash compactor out of the counter

Lay cardboard in front of the trash compactor to protect the floor, then remove the mounting screws that secure the trash compactor in the counter.

Pull the trash compactor out of the counter.

Tip: Use your installation manual as a guide for this step.

2. Disconnect electrical power: Unplug the trash compactor or shut off the house circuit breaker.

3. Remove the motor cover

Remove the screws in the back motor cover panel.

Remove the back motor cover panel and set it aside.

Remove the screws from the base of the motor cover.

Remove the screw on the side wire harness cover.

Pull the motor cover off and set it aside.

PHOTO: Remove the back motor cover screws.

PHOTO: Remove the motor housing base screws.

PHOTO: Remove the wire harness cover screw.

PHOTO: Pull off the motor housing cover.

4. Remove the motor centrifugal switch

Note the location of wires connected to the motor centrifugal switch. The wire colors are typically marked on the switch. Take a digital photo of the wire locations if necessary to document their location.

Remove the wires from the motor centrifugal switch.

Remove the mounting screws from the motor centrifugal switch and pull it off of the motor.