Troubleshooting and Repair Tips - Symptom - Wont spin

A washer that won't spin may have a bad lid switch. Lid switches are commonly found on top of a top-load washer. They can be tested by listening for a (click) when you slowly close the lid. This holds true for washers with mechanical lid switches that are visible on top of the washer. Usually, there is a plunger on the washer lid that comes down to activate the switch. If the switch does not click, then the switch is usually bad.


Whirlpool Top Load washer with lid switch on the right side that has a plunger on the lid that depresses the switch. (common part number 3499247 - but there are other less common lid switch part numbers - so you'll want to verify the part number based on the washer model number)

-Unplug washer.
-Look for screws on the right and left side bottom of the console. They are either in the front or the back.
-If the screws are not visible, you may have trim on the right and left that can be removed by grabbing top and pulling forward.
-If there is no removeable trim on the right and left of the console - and no screws are visible you may need to use a putty knife.
-For the putty knife released console, slide putty knife under the right and left front of the console to release.
-Remove the screws from the bottom of the console for whatever console version this is.
-Tilt console back.
-Remove the lid switch connector right under the console - it is identified by the connector that goes right through the washer top.
-Use a screwdriver to remove the two brass clips that hold the washer front to the back.
-Pull the front of the washer forward and lay down on the floor - exposing the lid switch.
-Remove the lid switch and replace with the new one.
-Reassemble washer in reverse order as described being careful to properly align the body of the washer with the frame and back .


Whirlpool Top Load washer with no lid switch on the right side and no plunger on the lid that depresses the switch. This model is the type that does not lock when it is washing. This model has the lid switch under the console (common part number 8318084)


-Unplug washer.
-Use a putty knife and slide it under the right and left front of the console to release.
-Tilt console back.
-Remove the connector from the lid switch (lid switch is on the left).
-Use a 5/16 nut driver to remove the ground wire from the lid switch.
-Lift the lid of the washer to release the lid switch. pull the lid switch out.
-Replace with the new one.
-Be sure that the connector is not damaged and is seated tight. -Reassemble washer in reverse order as described, being careful not to lose the clips on the right and left side of the washer that hold down the console .