Why Your Amana Washer Won't Spin

Your Amana washer won't spin because of common issues such as overloading, detergent usage, or mechanical faults in parts like the lid switch, drive belt, or motor coupling. Learn how to identify and address these problems with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions.

Common Reasons Your Amana Washer Isn't Spinning

If your Amana washer isn't spinning, there are steps that you can take to troubleshoot it:

• Load Size and Balance: If your washer is packed to the brim or the clothes are all huddled on one side, it can slow down spin speeds. Try to even out your laundry load and keeping the drum to a comfortable three-quarters full.
• Detergent Choice: Using excessive detergent, especially non-HE (High Efficiency) detergent in HE washers, can create too much suds which make it tough for your washer to spin properly. Always follow the manufacturer's recommended detergent dosage.
• Open Lid: Check that the lid is closed and latched. Once the lid is properly secured, your washer should resume its normal operation and enter the spin cycle.
• Mechanical Failures: Various parts can malfunction and cause your washer to stop spinning. These parts include the lid switch, drive belt, and motor coupling.

How to Fix Your Amana Washer That Isn't Spinning

If your washer continues to have spinning issues, it may be linked to particular parts:

Safety Precautions

Always disconnect your washer from its power source before starting any repair work. Read your washer's manual carefully for specific safety guidelines and instructions to prevent any injury or damage to the appliance.

How to Troubleshoot the Lid Switch in an Amana Washer

The lid switch is a safety feature designed to stop your Amana washer from running when the lid is open. It's a small plastic device with electrical contacts, typically situated near the lid or door frame. When the lid is closed, the switch activates, allowing the machine to operate. However, if the lid switch malfunctions, the washer might mistakenly think the lid is open and won't start spinning.

1. Remove Panels and Wires: Depending on your model, the lid lock might be accessible from the top or behind the front panel. Use the nut driver to remove the access panel and the upper back panel. Release the wiring harness from the control panel.
2. Access the Switch: Slide the top panel back and forth gently until it unlocks, revealing the lid switch assembly.
3. Test for Continuity: Set your multimeter to the lowest ohms of resistance setting. Touch the multimeter probes to the terminals of the lid switch. If the multimeter does not read any continuity, the lid switch is faulty and needs replacement.
4. Replace the Switch: Use the screwdriver to release the lid switch assembly. Unscrew the mounting screws, remove the old assembly, and install the new one, ensuring it clicks into place.

How to Troubleshoot the Drive Belt in an Amana Washer

The drive belt, usually a rubber loop with ribs or grooves, connects the motor to the drum or transmission. It transfers the motor's rotational power to spin the drum. If the belt is broken or excessively worn, it can't transfer this power, causing the washer to fail to spin.

1. Access the Belt: In top-load washers, the belt is at the bottom, connecting the transmission to the drive motor. In front-load washers, it's usually at the rear, connecting the motor to the wash basket.
2. Remove the Belt: Gently tilt the washing machine backward, laying it on the floor. Remove the motor shield and belt cover. Carefully slide the old belt off the transmission and motor pulleys
3. Inspect the Belt: A drive belt needs replacement if it has noticeable fraying, cracks, looseness, or a burnt rubber smell.
4. Replace the Belt: Clean off the transmission and motor pulleys. Loop the new belt around the motor pulley first, then around the transmission pulley. Make sure the belt is centered, with the grooved side facing inwards, and is properly tensioned.

How to Troubleshoot the Motor Coupling in an Amana Washer

The motor coupling connects the motor to the transmission. It usually consists of two plastic pieces joined by a rubber coupling. It transfers power from the motor to the drum. If the coupling is broken, the washer may fill and drain but won't spin, as the motor's power isn't reaching the drum. A damaged motor coupler can produce unusual sounds like grinding or rattling during the washer's operation.

1. Disassemble the Washer: Start by taking off the control panel. You'll find mounting screws either at the front, bottom, or back of the panel. Locate the lid switch wire harness under the control panel and disconnect it. Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the spring clips that secure the washer's body to the frame. Then, tilt and lift off the washer body at a 45-degree angle.
2. Access the Coupling: At the bottom of the washer, find the pump held by two clips. Remove these with a flathead screwdriver and set the pump aside. Remove the electrical connection from the motor, then unfasten the nuts holding the motor clips. Support the motor from the bottom while doing this.
3. Remove the Coupling: Pry the old coupler off the motor and transmission shafts using a claw hammer or a flathead screwdriver.
4. Inspect the Coupling: The motor may appear cracked, worn out, or broken. You might find chunks of rubber beneath the washer, which are pieces of the coupler's isolator breaking apart, indicating a damaged coupler
5. Replace the Coupling: Align the new coupler with the flat portions of the shafts and gently tap it into place, ensuring it's secure on both the motor and transmission shafts.

Working with appliance parts can be complex. If you're not confident in your ability to perform these steps, or if you've tried and still face spinning issues, it's a good idea to contact a professional technician for expert assistance. They can provide a thorough diagnosis and resolve any underlying issues with your Amana washer.