How to replace the drain pump in a top-load washer

This step-by-step washer repair guide shows how to replace the drain pump in a top-load washer. If your washer won't drain, first check the washer drain for a clog and the washer drain hose for a kink—don't skip this basic troubleshooting step. If the drain and drain hose are clear, replace the drain pump with a manufacturer-approved washer part if the pump runs but doesn't pump out the water, or if it doesn't run at all because the motor no longer works.

This repair procedure is for Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag and Amana top-load washers. Use the same basic steps to replace the drain pump in Samsung, LG, Frigidaire and GE top-load washers.

We also have instructions for replacing the drain pump on a front-load washer.

Instructions

1. Shut off the electricity and water

Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. Turn off the water supply valves for the washer.

Wear work gloves to protect your hands.

Have someone help you move the washer away from the wall.

2. Disconnect the hoses

Mark which fill hose goes to the hot connector and which goes to the cold.

Using channel lock pliers, carefully loosen and remove both fill hoses. Expect some water to pour out.

Pull the drain hose out of the standpipe behind the washer. Expect some water to pour out.

Tip: Wipe up water spills with a towel to prevent slipping.

3. Carefully lay the washer on its front panel

Move the washer to an area where you can work on it.

Lay cardboard or towels in front of the washer to prevent scratching the front of the washer.

Carefully tilt the washer forward and lay it on the front panel so that you can access the drain pump from the bottom of the washer.

4. Remove the drain pump

Use pliers to release the spring clamp on the drain hose.

Pull the drain hose off the drain pump.

Open the cover that protects the wire harness plug on the drain pump.

Pull the wire harness plug out of the receptacle on the drain pump.

Remove the 3 bolts that secure the drain pump to the bottom of the washer tub.

Pull the pump off and set it aside for disposal.

5. Install the new drain pump

Position the new drain pump on the bottom of the washer and secure it using the 3 bolts.

Plug the wire harness into the receptacle on the new pump.

Close the cover on the wire harness connection. Push the drain hose back onto the outlet of the drain pump.

Secure it with the spring clamp.

6. Set the washer upright

Carefully set the washer upright and move it close enough to the fill hoses that you can reconnect them.

7. Reinstall the fill hoses

Thread the fill hoses onto the connections on the back of the washer.

Tighten the connections firmly using a pair of channel lock pliers.

8. Restore the water and power

Turn on the water supply valves.

Tighten the connection if you find a slight leak. Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.

Return the washer to its original location.