Whirlpool

Washer Repair
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1

OK, I know that my washer is 19 years old, but if I can fix it for less than a third of what a new washer (albeit the new ones may be better and more efficient), than I figure it is worth it (unless someone more experienced can make an argument otherwise).

The last couple of times it was used, I noticed a slight electrical burning odor. I could not tell where it was emanating from, but I figured the motor was the place to start. I took off the cabinet and tested the starter switch and the motor as the repair manual indicated. Everything tested fine until I checked for shorts to the motor case. There my ohm meter gave readings in the magnitude of about 8 MILLION ohms between the case a few of the wires from the motor. New motor, right? But then I went back and tested again and got no reading. So what does this tell me? Do I need a new motor or not?

Second question - I removed the agitator and the tub to clean out all the stuff that accumulates over time and found that the porcelain in the center tube of the tub has chipped and the underlyinf metal has rusted a bit. No holes rusted through and the metal is still thick and strong as best I can tell. Do I need to replace the tub with a new one or is this "normal" and will last many more years? If I don’t need to replace the tub, should I try to seal the bare spots with epoxy or is that not necessary?

Thank you for any assistance you can offer.

Gary

2

Thank you.
Do I have to dismantle the motor to check the bearings? Also, How would I go about checking the current draw as you mention? Could you give me detailed instructions? I have a high quality meter, but I am a bit of a neophyte when it comes to electrical things (I am much better at mechanical items).

Thanks again.

Gary

3

If there is any lateral play in the bearings, you need a new motor. They sell digital meters with amprobe at Lowe’s.

4

You have bad motor bearings, time to replace the motor, not repairable.

5

My dryer heats fine on medium heat, but on high heat it doesn’t heat at all. The timer works fine, the motor works fine, just the high heat doesn’t heat at all. Any ideas

6

Test the thermostats on the back of the unit for continuity, behind the rear panel. I would say one of those is out not allowing the higher temp.
Nat