How to Replace a Damaged Agitator Coupler in Your GE Washer

In your GE washer model WHDSR316GWW the agitator coupler is situated between the drive shaft and the agitator. Due to normal wear and tear, the teeth at the bottom of the coupler can deteriorate, causing the agitator to no longer turn with the drive shaft. A grinding sound coming from your appliance during the wash cycle is another symptom of a damaged agitator coupler. If your washing machine is experiencing either issue, inspect the coupler to determine whether or not it needs replacing, and if it does, follow the repair guide provided below.

How to Replace the Agitator Coupler in Your GE Washer

Unplug your appliance and turn off its water supply valves to avoid electrocution. When carrying out an appliance repair, work gloves and safety goggles should always be worn to protect your hands and eyes.

1. Open up your washer lid. Reach inside your appliance to grab the bottom of the agitator and carefully pull the component out of your washing machine.
2. Now that you have gained access to the agitator coupler, use a socket and ratchet to unthread the bolt that secures the component to the inside of the washer. The tub may start spinning as you loosen the coupler bolt, so hold the tub with one hand to eliminate the rotation. After you have taken out the bolt, simply lift the agitator coupler off the drive shaft and out of your washing machine.
3. Grab your new coupler and slide it onto the drive shaft. If it’s not going down all the way, rotate the coupler to line up the teeth with the shaft, and then push the component further down. Once the coupler is in place, secure it with the bolt you removed earlier.
4. After the new agitator coupler is installed, retrieve the agitator and align it with the coupler. Then, push down on the agitator to reattach it to the washing machine.
5. To finish up your repair, plug-in your washer and turn the water supply valves back on. Test out the new part by tossing a load of laundry in your machine and hitting the start button. If everything runs smoothly, your repair was a success.

If your washer is making an odd noise when it operates or the agitator isn’t working and you can’t figure out the cause, please contact us today and we’ll be happy to diagnose and repair the malfunction for you.