Transmission going out or bad elec?

Washer Repair
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1

Hello all,

I’m having a problem with my Whirlpool (GE) washer. When it starts it’s final spin, there’s a loud clicking noise and it starts to vibrate irregularly, but not enough to make it walk. I took the front panel off and restarted the spin cycle. The sound appears to be coming from the bottom of the motor where the belt attaches to it. I think it’s the transmission, but I’m not sure. Anyway, it sounds like metal smacking against metal, like there’s a clutch that keeps engaging two or three times a second. Or maybe it’s applying the brake two or three times a second. I don’t know how to figure out which it is.

If anyone can help me troubleshoot this thing, I would greatly appreciate it. I have a backgroud in electrical/electronic troubleshooting, so don’t be shy with your suggestions. Or, I can manage it myself if anyone has the manual. I couldn’t find it online anywhere. Thanks in advance.

Will

3

Me again. The thread has had viewed several dozen times since I posted it, but apparently by other people having the same problem, or at least a similar one. If anyone reading the thread is having the same problem, please post a reply to that affect. Anyone reading it that can help may be more likely to do so if they can see it’s more than an isolated incident. Thanks.

4

Will,

The model number you posted does not come up. Verify and repost it, please.

Gene.

5

Gene said:
Will,

The model number you posted does not come up. Verify and repost it, please.

Gene.
Sorry about that Gene. I had put in what was on the electrical diagram sheet. The correct model number is: WLE6000B1WW.

Thanks.

6

Looks like the problem is a bad clutch (#608 on the diagram).

Here are the breakdown diagrams and http://www.appliancepartspros.com/partsearch/model.aspx?model_id=5100613

Gene.

7

Remove and inspect the belt. Check how freely the transmission pulley is moving in both directions.

Gene.