[SIZE=3]After the washer fills it won’t start washing. It just hums’ (sounds like the motor) and trips the breaker. I can hardly move the basket by hand with it empty. I have been told it could be the motor or the gearbox. Both are over $130 dollars so I would like to know what I need to check so I know what part I need before I spend $260 to fix a $400 washer.[/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3]Any and all info would be appreciated[/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3]Whirlpool model number GST9679PW1[/SIZE]
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[SIZE=3]Thanks, Brad[/SIZE]
Remove the motor. try turning the gearcase spindle by hand. If it does not turn freely in both directions, that is the faulty part. If it does turn freely, the motor is suspect. If replacing the motor, it is also good to replace the coupler assembly. To test the motor, set it well away from any metal in the frame, reconnect the wiring connectors and plug the machine in. Select a spin cycle, making sure the lid switch is closed, and press start. Be ready to unplug it quickly, and do so if the motor hums instead of running. If it runs in "spin" select a wash cycle. You will want to first reverse the connectors on your water level switch to make it "think" there’s water in it before plugging it in. Test as you did in "spin". Don’t be afraid, but don"t be over-confident. Electricity has no morals-it WILL kill you. If you think this is too much for you, a qualified tech is your best option.
check the CAPACITOR
Thank you for the reply Scuba Steve, you are 100% right on. When I opened it up, the capacitor was obviously puffed up next to the connections just as a bad can from the grocery store would bubble up. When I went to get the replacement, they didn’t have the same unit that controls both the fan and the compressor, therefore we split it into 2 capacitors and "viola", I was back in business. Total cost equated to $12.50. Man, that’s the kind of repair I can be proud of. Thank you for taking the time to respond.
CP