How to replace the spin basket in a top-load washer

This washer repair guide explains how to replace the spin basket in a top-load washer. The spin basket holds garments during the wash cycle. Replace the basket is if it's damaged where it attaches to the hub, causing a loud banging or rubbing sound during the spin cycle. Consider replacing it if the basket has spots of rust where it's chipped, because rust can leave marks on your clothing. If the spin basket is damaged or rusted, replace it using a manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Use these steps to replace the spin basket in Kenmore, Maytag, Whirlpool and Amana vertical modular top-load washers.

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. Lift the top panel

Tape the lid shut so it doesn’t flop open and damage the control console or hit your arms as you work.

Remove the top screws on the 2 hinge brackets on the back of the washer.

Remove the screw from the wire cover and pull it off of the washer.

Slide the top panel forward about half an inch and then raise the front of the top panel up about a quarter of an inch. With the panel still raised slightly, push the panel back about a quarter of an inch to release it from the brackets.

Lift the top panel and prop it against the wall behind the washer.

3. Remove the tub ring

Pull the bottom of the tub ring to release it from the locking tabs on the side of the outer plastic wash tub—use a slot screwdriver if necessary.

Pull the tub ring out of the washer.

4. Remove the impeller

Insert a slot screwdriver into the notch in the base of the plastic cap and pry the cap off the impeller.

Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolt that secures the impeller to the drive motor shaft.

Grasp the impeller firmly and pull it out of the washer.

5. Pull the spin basket out of the washer tub

Position the spanner wrench on top of the spanner nut so that the wrench teeth engage the notches in the nut.

Strike the arm of the spanner wrench with a hammer to loosen the spanner nut. Then spin the spanner nut until it's free and remove it from the washer.

Pull straight up on the spin basket to remove it from the washer tub.

Tip: Some washer models use a retainer clip to secure the spin basket to the drive shaft inside the washer tub. Follow the steps in the video to remove the retainer clip and pull out the spin basket.

6. Install the new spin basket

Position the new spin basket on the top of the shaft in the bottom of the tub and then work the new spin basket down until it's completely seated on the shaft.

Position the spanner nut and thread it onto the base of the new spin basket.

Hand tighten the spanner nut and then use the spanner wrench to snug the spanner nut.

Using reasonable force, strike the arm of the spanner wrench with a hammer to tighten the spanner nut.

Tip: Follow the steps in the video to reinstall the retainer clip if your washer uses a clip to secure the spin basket to the drive shaft inside the washer tub.

7. Reinstall the impeller

Push the impeller down on top of the drive motor shaft until it's fully seated.

Insert the bolt and tighten it firmly.

Snap the cap back onto the top of the impeller.

8. Reinstall the tub ring

Position the tub ring on the top of the outer tub and push it down.

Press down on the sections over the locking tabs so the tabs all snap into the locked position.

9. Reinstall the top panel

Carefully lower the top panel.

Engage the brackets by pulling the panel forward about a quarter of an inch until the panel drops and the brackets engage.

Push the panel back about a quarter of an inch to lock it flush with the frame.

Remove the tape from the washer lid.

Insert the screws back into the top of the hinges on the back of the control console.

Tighten the screws firmly.

Place the tabs on the right side of the wire cover in the slots and then line up the holes on the left side and insert the mounting screw.

Tighten the mounting screw to secure the wire cover in place.

10. Restore the water and power

Turn on the water supply valves.

Plug the washer into the electrical outlet.

Return the washer to its original location.

11. Calibrate the washer

With the washer shut off, the basket empty (no water or clothes) and the lid closed, enter the diagnostic mode:

Turn the control dial 1 complete rotation (360 degrees) counterclockwise.

Quickly (within about 6 seconds) turn the control dial 3 clicks clockwise, one click counterclockwise and one more click clockwise.

All the green status lights blink when you successfully activate the diagnostic mode.

If the status lights don’t blink, turn the control dial one complete rotation counter-clockwise to reset the control and then try again, this time turning the knob faster.

In the diagnostic mode, select the Calibration Cycle by turning the control dial 4 clicks clockwise. When the Rinse light turns on, press Start to begin the Calibration Cycle, which runs for 2 to 3 minutes.

When the Calibration Cycle ends, the lid unlocks and the washer shuts off.