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Whirlpool Top Load Washing Machine Suspension Rods Replacement

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

Introduction

Follow this guide to stop your Whirlpool-built top-load washer from shaking, walking, or banging during spin. Worn suspension rods let the tub move too freely, throwing the basket off balance. Replacing the rods restores stability and protects the drive components. The procedure shown on the Amana unit is identical for Whirlpool, Roper, Maytag Bravos, and Cabrio machines that share the same rod kit W10189077 / W10820048..

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Press hard on the agitator or wash plate and release to gauge the tub’s rebound.

    • Rock the tub side to side and check for lingering motion.

    • A tub that does not center immediately shows the rods are worn out.

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    • These instructions fit Whirlpool-built Amana, Roper, Maytag Bravos, and Cabrio top-load machines.

    • The rod replacement process is almost identical on many GE, LG, and Samsung washers.

    • The only major variation among brands is how the washer top is released.

  3. Edit

    • Acquire a W10189077 or W10820048 suspension rod replacement kit.

    • Have a 6-in-1 screwdriver with a 1⁄4-inch nut driver tip for the rear screws.

    • Put on one rubber-coated glove to grip oily suspension rods.

    • Keep masking tape to secure the lid and a putty knife for clip-style tops if your model requires it.

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    • Unscrew the two hinge screws at the back corners and the screw on the power-cord cover.

    • Standing at the front, pull the top toward you about two inches, lift up, then push it back to free it from its bracket.

    • Avoid forcing the metal cabinet to prevent damage.

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    • Slide a putty knife under the front edge and press the two clips to unlock the top.

    • Lift the top once both clips release.

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    • Tape the lid to the washer top so it cannot swing when the top is leaned back.

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    • Reach inside the cabinet, pull the rod upward with your gloved hand, and rotate its plastic cradle 90 degrees.

    • Lower the freed rod gently into the tub opening.

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    • Tilt the washer onto its side or lay it flat if space allows, noting some water may spill when fully laid down.

    • From below, guide the rod through both cabinet holes and wiggle the shepherd’s hook free.

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    • Feed the new rod up through the two cabinet holes and rest its bottom spring on the chassis lip.

    • Return the washer upright while keeping the rod seated.

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    • Replace the old plastic cup with the new one supplied in the kit.

    • Lift the tub and seat the rod’s hook into the cup; the Supco cup holds the hook at 180° instead of the original 90°.

    • Significant force is required—use the glove for extra grip and take care not to slip.

  11. Edit

    • Repeat the unhook, tilt, remove, install, and hook steps for each of the other suspension rods.

    • Limited floor space may restrict you to replacing one rod at a time.

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    • Some GE and Samsung cabinets have cut-outs that let you remove rods without tilting the washer.

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    • Confirm every plastic bushing matches the replacement kit; mixing brands can leave the tub unlevel and cause severe vibration.

    • Ensure the tub sits level before closing the cabinet.

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    • Press down on the agitator again; the tub should return to center with no rebound and minimal side play.

    • Run a spin cycle with clothes to confirm the bouncing and noise are gone.

Conclusion

WARNING: The source material does not include instructions for reinstalling the washer top and rear screws. Reattach the cabinet components using the reverse of the removal steps once the tub is level and stable.

Author

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Ben Schlichter

Member since: 01/21/25

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