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Whirlpool Washing Machine 2-in-1 Agitator Removal

Video Guide
This guide was transcribed from a YouTube video.

Introduction

Use this guide to remove the 2-in-1 agitator, the spring-loaded plate cap, and the wash plate impeller from a Whirlpool top-load washer (model WTW5057LW0). This design uses a twist-lock agitator and a spring-loaded cap system, so it comes apart differently than systems with an obvious center fastener.

What you need

  1. Edit

    • Unplug the washer from the wall outlet.

    • Turn off both water supply valves if you’ll be leaning into the tub for a while.

    • Open the lid, and make sure the tub is empty and dry enough for good grip.

    • Wear cut-resistant gloves if you’re using hooked tools or screwdrivers near plastic edges.

  2. Edit

    • Lift up on the agitator handle.

    • Turn the agitator counterclockwise about one eighth of a turn to dislodge it from the base.

    • Pull straight up to lift the agitator out of the tub.

    • If the agitator won’t turn, something may be locking it in place.

    • Run a hot temperature deep wash with a mild washer cleaner tablet or wash balm to help loosen buildup.

    • Caution: Forcing it can break the agitator, even if other parts are unlikely to be damaged.

  3. Edit

    • Look at the exposed center area to find the plate cap system under the agitator.

    • Note: The spring under this cap lets it move up and down to lock the agitator in place.

    • Note: Diagram from top to bottom is agitator, plate cap, wash plate screw, and wash plate impeller.

  4. Edit

    • Use a trampoline spring tool or another hooked tool to grab the plate cap at its slot.

    • Pull up to dislodge the plate cap system from the wash plate.

    • Caution: Pull straight up so the hook tool doesn’t slip and scratch the tub.

  5. Edit

    • Check the cap’s retaining fingers if the cap won’t release easily.

    • Insert thin slotted screwdrivers into the holes in the cap.

    • Flex the pieces outward to help the fingers release, then lift the cap out.

    • Caution: Don’t pry against the tub wall, and don’t over-flex the plastic fingers.

  6. Edit

    • Locate the wash plate screw in the center under where the cap was removed.

    • Use a 7/16 socket to turn the screw counterclockwise until it comes out.

    • Use an impact driver or a socket wrench with an extension to reach and loosen the screw.

    • If the screw is very tight with a hand wrench, have a helper hold the tub while you turn the wrench.

    • Note: An extension bar can make this easier if clearance is tight.

  7. Edit

    • Lift the wash plate impeller off the gear case once the screw is removed.

    • Inspect the gear case splines and the underside of the wash plate for damage or stripped splines.

    • Note: You may find debris wrapped around the splines, such as a piece of cloth.

    • Note: The basket is held by a spanner nut that uses a Whirlpool spanner wrench, but that isn’t required for this procedure.

  8. Edit

    • Align the wash plate with the gear case splines, and press it down until it seats.

    • Apply blue thread locker to the wash plate screw by holding it vertical and coating the threads so it spreads through the threading.

    • Reinstall the screw using the same method you used to remove it, and tighten it securely.

    • If needed, have a helper hold the tub while you torque the screw down.

    • Caution: Don’t get thread locker on plastic parts or on surfaces where it could drip into the tub.

  9. Edit

    • Align the plate cap tabs with the wash plate so it only fits in its keyed orientation, then press until it snaps into place.

    • Set the 2-in-1 agitator into position on its base.

    • Lock the agitator by reversing the removal motion until it seats securely.

    • Note: The cap should still move up and down slightly because of the spring underneath.

Conclusion

Make sure the agitator and cap are fully seated, remove any tools from the tub, plug the washer back in, and run a quick cycle to confirm the agitator stays locked and the wash plate doesn’t wobble.

Author

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Ben Schlichter

Member since: 01/21/25

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