Whirlpool W10734521 Washer Brake & Clutch Assembly OEM Part

We watched the videos posted on AppliancePartsPros.com website several times before starting the work. Once we were confident of the process, we jumped in with the complete disassembly of the washing machine's drum rotating assembly...everything that touched the drum or made it rotate. My son and I disassembled and inspected each part for wear/damage and ordered replacement parts based on condition. The parts came in within 3 days of ordering. My son and I took 3 hours to reassemble and test the washing machine for operation. It took 30 minutes to get everything together, and it took 2.5 hours to figure out how to get the drum onto the gearcase without damaging it. Once we figured that out, it was smooth sailing.

Ran diagnostics. Used Washer Service Manual I found on line. Diagnosis was tedious, but led to a bad component. Clutch (or slider, it is called sometimes) did not engage during spin cycles. Tested the output of the board, 120VAC was going to the magnetic clutch, but it did not move when commanded. The teeth on the slider and the rotor looked ok. Everything moved easily by hand. Replacing the magnetic clutch is fairly easy. Have towels available. The washer must be tipped up to remove/replace, and the washer will have some water in it. Your video was very helpful. BTW, the Samsung service manual did not reference replacing the magnetic clutch, but it certainly was the problem.

I ordered a clutch, and the clutch slide package. The popping noise only occurred on startup, and during agitation cycles. Spin cycle never made noises, so I ruled out bearings. The best part of the repair is the clutch access doesn't require any disassembly of the washing machine cabinet. Just tilt the machine forward and access the clutch at the bottom of the machine. 8 bolts secure the clutch, and a spring retainer clip holds the clutch slide in place. I used a pick to remove the spring retainer clip. I found 2 hairline fractures in the side of the clutch slide. It was probably the noise culprit, but since I was in there and I had also ordered the clutch, I replaced both. The machine is 10+ years old and runs quietly again. I used to delay washing to daytime only, because the popping noise would wake up the family lol. Problem solved.

Customer complained that the tub wouldn’t spin but agitator worked. This pointed to the clutch. After disassembly of the clutch and slider, I found the slider was damaged and the magnetic clutch had some gunk built up around the inside of the ring. I replaced both parts and everything works good. Here’s a tip: If the location of the machine requires you to tip it on its back instead of the front; I’d suggest taping the lid shut! I didn’t, and the lid flopped open and the glass came out of the frame! Luckily It didn’t break, but I had to spend an additional 10-15 minutes taking the lid apart and reassembling it!

Replaced need parts. Happy wife, happy life!