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Whirlpool Top-Load Washing Machine Suspension Rod Replacement

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

What you need

      • Press firmly down on the agitator or wash plate, then release it to check how the tub rebounds.

      • Rock the tub side to side and check for continued movement.

      • A tub that does not return to center immediately usually has worn suspension rods.

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      • These instructions fit many Whirlpool-built top-load washers sold under Whirlpool, Amana, Roper, Maytag Bravos, and Cabrio branding.

      • The biggest model-to-model difference is usually how the top panel is released.

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      • 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. Expect some water to spill if the washer is 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 new cup. Some replacement cups hold the hook at a different angle than the original, so match the new cup to the kit design.

      • Use the glove for extra grip and keep your hand clear in case the rod slips.

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      • 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 other washer cabinets have cut-outs that let you remove rods without tilting the machine, but Whirlpool-built cabinets usually do not.

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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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      • Reinstall the top panel and any remaining screws before returning the washer to service.

      • 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.

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Conclusion

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Ben Schlichter

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