Well, Shoot. Washer Isn't Agitating. 

"Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura" (sundowne36) 02/02/2016 at 00:29 • Filed to: None

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Welp. Looks like this machine’s toast. While washing a load in the GE top-loader, I found myself staring at a washer... That won’t agitate. The agitator would move somewhat (just not as vigorous... Basically barely any movement) and it’ll spin along with the tub in the spin cycle, but apart from that, nothing. Any ideas?

EDIT: If this helps, this is one of those GE Direct Drive washers.

thebigbossyboss > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 00:34

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Gear at bottom of agitator missing teeth or missing some teeth. Thus the actual agitation is happening but the plastic bit isn’t spinning. Less important when spinning in one direction as the force would be greater.

That is my guess.

I should let it be known that I have no experience in washing machines.

Theropod > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 00:50

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Agitator Dogs. I just replaced the ones in my Kenmore top loader on Friday. $3.86 for the parts and 20 minutes to install.

LeftOfTheDial > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 00:53

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It’s cold in the garage and these are much easier to work on than cars so you can get your mechanical fix.

“Some top load washers use a direct drive motor coupling to transfer power from the motor to the transmission. The drive coupling connects the motor to the transmission and consists of 2 plastic drive forks with a rubber coupling between them. One of the drive forks is attached to the drive motor shaft and the other is attached to the transmission input shaft. As the motor shaft rotates, the rubber coupling between the drive forks absorbs the torque to prevent the forks from breaking. Normal use will create wear on the coupling and eventually the drive forks may slip and not engage the transmission and clutch. A common symptom of a failing motor coupling is that the washing machine fills and drains normally but will not agitate or spin. Most models will require you to remove the cabinet to access the drive assembly. Remove the pump and the motor to access the coupler. Disconnect power from the appliance before attempting any repairs.”

Haven’t done this but using google info I’ve fixed the furnace and dryer myself.

Good luck!

Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura > LeftOfTheDial 02/02/2016 at 00:57

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I thought it was the motor assembly too but seeing that it spins along with the tub during the spin cycle, the motor should be fine, right..?

LeftOfTheDial > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 01:04

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From what I can think is possibly the rubber is weak in 1 direction, opposite of spin. is it easy remove cover?

ttyymmnn > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 02:17

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What Theropod said. I’ve got a Kenmore, but the problem sounds similar. Google “clutch dogs” or “agitator dogs” for your model. I fixed my washer for under $5.

-this space for rent- > LeftOfTheDial 02/02/2016 at 06:54

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When that coupler goes bad it usually won’t spin out, agitation is different. Fancy new direct drive might be different. It’s easy enough to check though.

-this space for rent- > Satoshi "Zipang" Katsura 02/02/2016 at 06:56

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Try this: http://www.partselect.com/Repair/Washer/…

thebigbossyboss > Theropod 02/02/2016 at 14:42

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Is that the gear on the bottom of the agitator that helps it spin or what?