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The agitator in a GE washing machine is a crucial component responsible for agitating clothes during the wash cycle, ensuring thorough cleaning. However, there may be instances when removing the agitator becomes necessary, such as for repairs, cleaning, or replacement. The process of removing an agitator from a GE washing machine involves several steps, and it’s essential to approach it with caution to avoid damaging the appliance or causing injury.
Before attempting to remove the agitator, safety precautions must be taken. Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet to prevent electrical shock. Additionally, ensure that the water supply to the machine is turned off to avoid any potential flooding. It’s advisable to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or cleaning solutions that may be used during the process. Next, remove the fabric softener and bleach dispensers, typically located on the top of the agitator. These dispensers can be easily lifted off, providing access to the agitator bolt.
Once the dispensers are removed, locate the agitator bolt situated at the base of the agitator. This bolt secures the agitator in place and must be loosened before the agitator can be removed. Using a socket wrench or adjustable wrench, carefully loosen the agitator bolt by turning it counterclockwise. Avoid over-tightening or loosening the bolt, as this can damage the agitator or the washing machine itself. After loosening the bolt, grasp the agitator firmly and pull it straight up to detach it from the transmission shaft. In some cases, the agitator may be stuck and require a gentle rocking motion to loosen it. If necessary, use a rubber mallet to gently tap the agitator from the sides, taking care not to damage the appliance or injure yourself.
Identifying the Agitator Model
Identifying the agitator model in your GE washing machine is crucial before attempting the removal process. GE has various agitator models with distinct characteristics and removal procedures. Here’s a detailed guide to help you pinpoint the correct model:
1. Observe the Agitator’s Design and Shape
Examine the agitator’s shape and design carefully. GE agitators come in different shapes and sizes, such as:
- Axial-Flow Agitator: This agitator is shorter in height and has a cylindrical or bullet shape with an oval or round base. It moves through the water in an axial direction, creating a high-power wash.
- Vertical-Flow Agitator: Taller than the axial-flow model, this agitator has a vertical column with blades or paddles that extend from the base to the top. It creates a gentle wash by moving water vertically.
- Paddle-Wheel Agitator: This agitator has a flat, circular shape with blades or paddles arranged around its circumference. It rotates on a horizontal axis, creating a gentle wash.
2. Check the Agitator’s Style
GE washing machines come with either a “twist and lift” or “snap-on” style agitator. To determine which style you have:
- Twist and Lift: This agitator has a lock ring at the base that requires you to twist and lift it off the shaft.
- Snap-On: This agitator snaps onto the shaft without any locking mechanism. It can be simply pulled up and off.
3. Examine the Agitator Cap
The agitator cap is located at the top of the agitator. It may have a GE logo, model number, or part number imprinted on it. Refer to this information to identify the specific agitator model.
Preparing the Washing Machine
Before you begin removing the agitator, it is essential to properly prepare the washing machine. Here are the steps you need to take:
- Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
- Turn off the water supply to the washing machine.
- Disconnect the washing machine from the water supply lines.
- Lay down old towels or a drop cloth around the washing machine to catch any water that may leak.
Disconnecting the Power Cord and Water Hoses
Disconnecting the power cord and water hoses is crucial for safety and to prevent any damage to the washing machine. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a safe and proper disconnection:
- Locate the power outlet where the washing machine is plugged in. Grasp the plug firmly and pull it straight out of the outlet.
- Behind the washing machine, locate the water supply lines that are connected to the hot and cold water valves. Use pliers or a wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the hoses to the valves.
- Once the nuts are loosened, carefully pull the hoses away from the valves. There may be some water remaining in the hoses, so be prepared for a small amount of water to leak out.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the power outlet and unplug the washing machine. |
| 2 | Use pliers or a wrench to loosen the nuts that secure the water supply lines to the valves. |
| 3 | Carefully pull the hoses away from the valves. |
Disconnecting the Agitator Nut
To disconnect the agitator nut, you’ll need a pair of pliers or a wrench. Grip the nut firmly and turn it counterclockwise. The nut may be difficult to turn, so you may need to use some force. If the nut is too tight to turn, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it.
Once the nut is loose, you can remove it by hand. Be careful not to drop the nut, as it can be heavy.
Here are some additional tips for disconnecting the agitator nut:
- If you’re having trouble gripping the nut, you can try using a pair of pliers with rubber grips.
- If the nut is too tight to turn, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen it. Apply the oil to the nut and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to turn it again.
- Be careful not to overtighten the nut when you’re reattaching it. Overtightening can damage the nut or the agitator.
Once the agitator nut is disconnected, you can remove the agitator by lifting it straight up. Be careful not to drop the agitator, as it can be heavy.
Removing the Agitator Cap
The agitator cap is the central white dome-shaped part of the agitator. It is important to remove the agitator cap before attempting to remove the agitator. The agitator cap is held in place by two or three small screws. Locate the screws and remove them using a screwdriver.
Once the screws are removed, you can lift the agitator cap off of the agitator. If the agitator cap is stuck, you can gently pry it off using a flathead screwdriver.
Lifting the Agitator Upwards
Now that the cap has been removed, it’s time to lift the agitator upwards. Here’s how to do it:
5. Inserting the Handle or Tool
There are two ways to insert the handle or tool:
| Method 1: Using a Special Tool | Method 2: Using a Towel |
|---|---|
|
Insert the special tool into the hole at the bottom of the agitator cap. |
Wrap a thick towel around the bottom of the agitator and insert it into the hole. |
Make sure that the handle or towel is inserted securely and it won’t slip during the lifting process.
6. Lifting the Agitator
Once the handle or tool is inserted, grab it firmly and lift the agitator straight upwards. It may require some effort, but keep lifting steadily. As you lift, the agitator should come out of the tub fairly easily.
7. Removing the Agitator
Once the agitator is lifted out of the tub, carefully remove it and set it aside in a safe place. You can now access the agitator shaft for cleaning or repair.
Releasing the Agitator Fins
Once the top cap has been removed, you will need to release the agitator fins. To do this, insert a flathead screwdriver into the small tab located at the top of each fin. Gently push down on the tab while pulling up on the fin. The fin should release easily.
Repeat this process for all of the agitator fins. Once all of the fins have been released, you can lift the agitator up and out of the washing machine.
Removing the Agitator Bolt
Once the agitator has been lifted up, you will need to remove the agitator bolt. This bolt is located at the bottom of the agitator and is typically held in place by a hex nut. Use a wrench or socket to loosen the nut and remove the bolt.
Pulling Up the Agitator
With the bolt removed, you can now pull up on the agitator to remove it completely. Be careful not to damage the agitator or the inside of the washing machine when doing so.
Removing the Agitator Dog Ears
Once the agitator has been removed, you will need to remove the agitator dog ears. These are small plastic tabs located at the bottom of the agitator. To remove them, simply pull them up with your fingers. They should come off easily.
Removing the Agitator Coupling
The agitator coupling is a small plastic part that connects the agitator to the transmission. To remove it, simply pull it up with your fingers. It should come off easily.
Removing the Agitator Shaft
The agitator shaft is a metal rod that runs through the center of the agitator. To remove it, simply pull it up with your fingers. It should come off easily.
Disassembling the Agitator Body
To disassemble the agitator body, follow these steps:
-
Lift the agitator cap.
Locate the agitator cap on top of the agitator body. Grasp the cap firmly and lift it straight up. -
Remove the agitator bolt.
Once the cap is removed, you will see a bolt in the center of the agitator body. Use a socket wrench to loosen and remove the bolt. -
Pull the agitator body up.
Once the bolt is removed, grasp the agitator body and pull it straight up. It may be necessary to use some force to remove the body. -
Remove the agitator fins.
Once the agitator body is removed, you will see several agitator fins attached to the bottom of the body. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the fins in place. -
Clean the agitator body and fins.
Once the agitator body and fins are disassembled, clean them thoroughly with a mild detergent and water. Rinse the parts thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before reassembling. -
Reassemble the agitator body.
To reassemble the agitator body, follow these steps in reverse order:- Attach the agitator fins to the bottom of the agitator body using the screws.
- Place the agitator body over the transmission shaft and push down until it is seated.
- Tighten the agitator bolt using a socket wrench.
- Replace the agitator cap.
-
Test the agitator.
Once the agitator is reassembled, run the washer through a short cycle to test the agitator. The agitator should move smoothly and evenly.
Removing the Agitator Shaft
The agitator shaft is the central component of the agitator assembly, and it’s necessary to remove it in order to take out the agitator. Before you start, unplug the washing machine from the power outlet and turn off the water supply.
- Remove the agitator cap by prying it off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Use a 7/16-inch socket wrench to remove the bolt that holds the agitator shaft in place.
- Lift the agitator straight up to remove it from the shaft.
- Inspect the agitator shaft for any damage or wear.
- If the shaft is damaged, it must be replaced.
- To replace the shaft, insert the new shaft into the agitator and secure it with the bolt.
- Replace the agitator cap.
- Reconnect the water supply and plug the washing machine back into the power outlet
Cleaning the Agitator Shaft
| Part | Cleaning Method |
|---|---|
| Shaft | Wipe down with a damp cloth. |
| Bolt | Clean with a wire brush. |
| Agitator Cap | Wash with soap and water. |
Cleaning and Inspecting the Components
Once the agitator has been removed, it’s important to thoroughly clean and inspect all of its components.
-
Rinse the cap and agitator assembly with clean water: Hold the cap and agitator assembly under the running water and rinse thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
-
Clean the inside of the agitator: Use a sponge or soft brush to clean the inside of the agitator, paying particular attention to any areas that may have accumulated dirt or mold.
-
Inspect the cap for damage: Check the cap for any cracks or damage. If the cap is damaged, it will need to be replaced before reassembling the agitator.
-
Inspect the agitator for wear and tear: Examine the agitator for any signs of wear or tear, such as worn-out fins or broken components. If any damage is found, the agitator will need to be replaced.
-
Lubricate the agitator shaft: Before reassembling the agitator, apply a thin layer of lubricant to the agitator shaft. This will help to prevent any squeaking or sticking during operation.
-
Inspect the transmission shaft: While the agitator is removed, take the opportunity to inspect the transmission shaft for any signs of damage or wear. If any issues are found, they should be addressed before reassembling the agitator.
-
Clean the washer tub: With the agitator removed, take the time to clean the inside of the washer tub. Remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated, and rinse the tub thoroughly.
-
Inspect the drive belt for wear and tear: The drive belt is responsible for connecting the motor to the agitator. Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
-
Inspect the motor coupler: The motor coupler is responsible for transferring power from the motor to the agitator shaft. Check the coupler for any signs of wear or damage, and replace it if necessary.
If you are unsure about any aspect of cleaning or inspecting the components, please consult a qualified appliance technician.
Reassembling the Agitator
Once the agitator dog is secured, it’s time to reassemble the agitator. Start by reinserting the agitator hub into the transmission shaft. Align the agitator dogs with the notches on the agitator hub and engage them. Rotate the agitator hub clockwise until it is fully seated and the agitator dogs are securely fastened.
Next, put the agitator baffle over the agitator hub. Make sure the baffle is properly aligned with the transmission shaft and seating firmly. Position the agitator drum over the agitator baffle and press down firmly until it snaps into place.
Place the agitator cap on the top of the agitator drum and secure it with the screws or bolts. Connect the agitator paddles to the agitator cap, making sure they are properly aligned. Reinforce the connection points with screws or bolts to ensure a secure fit.
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Agitator dog | 1 |
| Agitator hub | 1 |
| Agitator baffle | 1 |
| Agitator drum | 1 |
| Agitator cap | 1 |
| Agitator paddles | 4 |
| Screws or bolts | As needed |
How to Remove an Agitator from a GE Washing Machine
Removing the agitator from a GE washing machine is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. To begin, you will need to gather a few tools, including a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, and a hammer. Once you have your tools, follow these steps:
- Unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
- Remove the agitator cap by prying it off with a screwdriver or a pair of pliers.
- Locate the agitator bolt and loosen it using a screwdriver or a pair of pliers.
- Carefully lift the agitator up and off of the transmission shaft.
- If the agitator is stuck, you can use a hammer to gently tap it loose.
People Also Ask
How do I remove the agitator from a top-load GE washing machine?
The process for removing the agitator from a top-load GE washing machine is similar to the process for removing the agitator from a front-load GE washing machine. However, there may be some slight variations in the steps, depending on the specific model of washing machine that you have.
Can I remove the agitator from my GE washing machine myself?
Yes, you can remove the agitator from your GE washing machine yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working on appliances, you may want to consider hiring a professional to do the job for you.
How much does it cost to remove an agitator from a GE washing machine?
The cost of removing an agitator from a GE washing machine will vary depending on the specific model of washing machine that you have and the location of your home. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for the service.
