The top of the agitator in your Kenmore washer may stop moving the way it should when the agitator dogs wear out or break.
Agitator dogs are small plastic parts inside the upper section of the agitator. They help control movement during the wash cycle. These parts grip the inner agitator so that the top section turns in one direction while staying still in the other. This motion helps move clothes around for proper cleaning.
When these parts wear down, the top of the agitator may spin freely or stop working as expected.
What You Need
Here are the basic tools and parts required for this repair:
- 7/16 socket and extension
- Pliers
- Replacement agitator dogs compatible with your washer model
Safety Tips
Follow these safety tips before and during the repair process.
- Turn off the washer and unplug it from the power source before starting any work
- Shut off the water supply to prevent leaks
- Let the washer cool down if it was recently used
- Work slowly and carefully to avoid mistakes and injuries
- Use a well-lit workspace so you can clearly see all parts
- Keep the area clean and free from clutter
- Keep children and pets away from the work area
- Make sure your hands and workspace are dry before handling internal parts
- Check the user manual for model-specific instructions
- Handle parts gently to avoid damage
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands
- Avoid touching exposed wires and use proper tools when needed
- Wear safety glasses or a dust mask when dealing with dust or debris
How to Replace Agitator Dogs in a Kenmore Washer
Follow these steps to replace worn agitator dogs and restore proper washing performance.
Preparation
- Turn off the washer and unplug it from the power supply.
- Turn off the water supply to the washer.
Access the Agitator
- Lift the lid to access the agitator.
- Remove the top cap or fabric softener dispenser by pulling it straight up, then set it aside.
- Look inside the agitator and remove the dust cap with a rubber seal by hand or with pliers if needed.
Remove the Agitator Components
- Locate the 7/16-inch bolt inside the agitator and use a socket wrench with an extension to reach it.
- Turn the bolt counterclockwise to loosen and remove it while holding the lower agitator to keep it from spinning.
- Pull the upper agitator straight up and turn it over to release the cam and old agitator dogs.
- Place the cam assembly on a flat surface and slide the cam bearing off the cam.
Replace the Agitator Dogs
- Remove the old agitator dogs by sliding them out of their grooves.
- Insert the new agitator dogs one at a time in the same direction as the old ones.
Reassemble the Washer
- Slide the cam bearing back onto the cam and place the cam assembly back into the upper agitator.
- Reinstall the upper agitator into the washer.
- Reinsert and tighten the 7/16-inch bolt securely.
- Replace the dust cap and the top cap or fabric softener dispenser.
Final Steps
- Plug the washer back in and turn on the water supply.
- Run a small test load to confirm the washer is working correctly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Keep these common mistakes in mind to prevent problems during the repair.
- Forgetting to unplug the washer before starting
- Skipping the step of turning off the water supply
- Using the wrong size socket for the bolt
- Forcing parts apart instead of gently separating them
- Installing the agitator dogs in the wrong direction
- Losing small parts like the dust cap or bolt
- Not tightening the bolt properly during reassembly
- Reassembling parts out of order
- Using incompatible replacement agitator dogs
- Rushing through the process and missing key steps
- Leaving tools or loose parts inside the washer
- Not testing the washer after the repair
Tips for Longer Lasting Agitator Dogs
Use these tips to help extend the life of your agitator dogs and washer.
- Avoid overloading the washer with heavy items
- Wash bulky items in smaller loads
- Use the correct wash cycle for each type of fabric
- Do not force the agitator by hand during operation
- Check the agitator movement from time to time
- Clean the washer regularly to prevent buildup
- Use the right amount of detergent to reduce strain
- Inspect internal parts during routine maintenance
- Replace worn parts early to prevent further damage
- Keep the washer balanced during use
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load size
- Store spare parts that match your washer model
In Summary
A fresh set of agitator dogs can bring your Kenmore washer back to the motion it needs for better cleaning. This repair is small, but it can make a big difference when the top of the agitator starts slipping or stops working the right way.
With the right tools, careful steps, and the correct replacement part, this is a fix many people can handle at home. Paying attention to part placement and reassembly can help the washer run smoothly again and keep laundry moving the way it should.
After the repair, a quick test load can help you confirm everything is back in place and working properly. Keep an eye on load size and general washer care as well, since good habits can help the new agitator dogs last longer and help you avoid another repair too soon.