September 1, 2015

How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the carbon motor brushes in a stand mixer. The motor brushes transfer electrical current to the motor armature to start and run the motor. If the motor sparks when running, the motor brushes are likely worn and need replacement. Replace the motor brushes with the manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use these steps to replace carbon motor brushes in KitchenAid and Whirlpool stand mixers.

Quick links
Tools required
Work gloves
Slot screwdriver
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
How to replace carbon motor brushes in a stand mixer repair guide video.

Replacing stand mixer motor brushes video.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the electricity

    Unplug the power cord.

  2. 02.

    Remove the carbon motor brushes

    Using a slot screwdriver, unscrew the motor brush cap and pull the cap and the carbon brush out.

    Repeat the process on the opposite side.

    Tip: The carbon brush caps are on spring-loaded. Hold onto the brush caps when removing them so they don't fly off.
    PHOTO: Remove the motor brush caps.

    PHOTO: Remove the motor brush caps.

    PHOTO: Pull out the motor brushes.

    PHOTO: Pull out the motor brushes.

  3. 03.

    Install the carbon motor brushes

    Looking from the back of the mixer, position the right side carbon brush with the flattened corner facing the upper left corner of the brush holder.

    Insert the right side brush into the brush holder.

    Reinstall the brush cap.

    Position the left side brush with the flattened corner facing the lower right corner of the brush holder.

    Insert the left side brush into the brush holder.

    Reinstall the brush cap.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor brush.

    PHOTO: Install the new motor brush.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor brush cap.

    PHOTO: Reinstall the motor brush cap.

  4. 04.

    Restore power

    Reconnect the power cord.

Warning: Undertaking repairs or maintenance to appliances or power equipment can be hazardous. Should you choose to undertake repairs or maintenance, you are assuming the risk of injury to your person or property. In an effort to reduce the risk, use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the applicable guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs or maintenance, however, should only be performed by a qualified technician.

Symptoms common to all stand mixers

Choose a symptom to see related stand mixer repairs.

Main cause: attachment clearance setting needs adjustment
Main causes: lack of electrical power, wiring failure, worn carbon motor brushes, bad drive motor, tripped overload switch, control problems
Main causes: bad lubricating grease, mixer sitting idle for weeks at a time, mixer running constantly for more than 30 minutes
Main causes: phase control board failure, wiring connection problem, faulty electronic control board
Main causes: bad wiring connections, faulty speed control plate, electronic control board failure
Main cause: worn carbon motor brushes
Main causes: bad worm gear, damaged planetary gear assembly

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These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your stand mixer.

How to replace a stand mixer worm gear

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Repair difficulty
Time required
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How to replace a stand mixer phase control board

The phase control board works with the governor and control plate to control motor speed. Replace the phase control board if defective.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace stand mixer motor brushes

If the carbon brushes are worn and damaged, replace them using these steps.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

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