If the upper agitator spins freely, clothes stay near the top of the wash basket, or your laundry isn't coming out as clean as it used to, worn agitator dogs may be the cause. Although the washer can still complete a full cycle, a worn set of agitator dogs can significantly reduce washing performance. In this article, BlueStars Parts will help you understand how washer agitator dogs work, recognize the most common signs of wear, prepare the right tools and replacement parts, and learn how to replace agitator dogs with confidence.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
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Replacing agitator dogs is a simple DIY repair for many top-load washers with a dual-action agitator. Before buying parts, confirm the upper agitator is the real issue.
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Before replacing agitator dogs, confirm that your washer is showing one or more of the following symptoms. This quick check can help determine whether worn agitator dogs are the most likely cause or if another component may be responsible.
|
Symptom |
Likely agitator dogs? |
|---|---|
|
Upper agitator spins both directions |
Very likely |
|
Lower agitator works but upper doesn't |
Likely |
|
Weak cleaning performance only |
Possible |
|
Washer won't spin at all |
Probably another issue |
1. What are washer agitator dogs?
Washer agitator dogs are small plastic components that help the upper section of a dual-action agitator rotate in one direction during the wash cycle. Located inside the agitator, they engage with the cam assembly to create the one-way ratcheting motion that moves clothes through the wash basket. When these parts wear out, the upper agitator can no longer grip properly, resulting in reduced washing performance.
However, not every washing machine uses agitator dogs. They are commonly found in many top-load washers with dual-action agitators, including selected Whirlpool, Kenmore, and other compatible models. Front-load washers, impeller washers, and many newer high-efficiency top-load washers use different wash mechanisms and do not require agitator dogs.
Washer agitator dogs are small plastic components inside a dual-action agitator (Source: BlueStars Parts)
>> Explore more: Agitator or Impeller Better? Which Is Better for You?
2. Signs your agitator dogs need replacement
Worn agitator dogs usually affect the upper part of a dual-action agitator. If the washer still runs but clothes are not moving well, check for these signs:
|
Sign |
What it means |
Check first |
|---|---|---|
|
The upper agitator spins freely both ways |
The agitator dogs may be worn and can no longer grip the cam assembly. |
Agitator dogs |
|
Clothes stay near the top of the basket |
The upper agitator is not pulling clothes down through the water properly. |
Upper agitator |
|
Clothes are not getting clean |
Weak agitation may reduce washing performance, even if the cycle completes normally. |
Agitator dogs and agitator assembly |
|
Clicking or slipping sounds during agitation |
The agitator dogs may be slipping instead of locking into place. |
Cam assembly + agitator dogs |
|
The lower agitator moves, but the upper part does not |
The agitator dogs or cam assembly may need inspection or replacement. |
Agitator dogs and cam assembly |
Worn agitator dogs usually do not cause issues such as a washer that won't drain, won't spin, won't fill with water, or a washer that displays electrical error codes. These problems are typically related to other components, such as the drain pump, lid switch, water inlet valve, control board, or wiring, rather than the agitator dogs themselves.
3. Tools and parts you need before replacing agitator dogs
Replacing agitator dogs is considered one of the easiest DIY washer repairs and typically takes 30 - 60 minutes, depending on your washer model and repair experience. Before getting started, gather all the necessary tools and make sure you have the correct replacement part on hand. The table below lists the tools and parts needed for this repair and indicates whether each item is required or optional:
|
No. |
Tool/Part |
Required or Optional |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
7/16-inch socket wrench or socket set |
Required |
|
2 |
Socket extension |
Optional |
|
3 |
Flat-head screwdriver |
Required |
|
4 |
Needle-nose pliers |
Optional |
|
5 |
Work gloves |
Optional |
|
6 |
Towel or small container for parts |
Optional |
|
7 |
Replacement agitator dogs |
Required |
Preparing everything in advance helps the repair go more smoothly and reduces the risk of interruptions once the washer has been disassembled. You can browse the BlueStars Parts Washer Parts collection to find compatible replacement parts for your washer model.
Once you've confirmed the agitator dogs are worn, use a model-compatible replacement. For many Whirlpool and Kenmore washers, the BlueStars Parts 80040 Washer Agitator Dogs restore the one-way ratcheting action of the upper agitator. Always verify model compatibility before ordering.
4. How to replace agitator dogs
After gathering the necessary tools and replacement parts, you're ready to replace the worn agitator dogs. The following six steps will guide you through the repair from disassembly to testing.
Step 1: Unplug the washer and prepare your tools
Unplug the washer first so it cannot start while you work. Remove any laundry from the drum, gather your tools and replacement agitator dogs, and keep a towel or small container nearby for screws and small parts. The washer should be powered off and your workspace should be ready before you open the agitator.
If your washer stops before completing the agitation cycle, the problem may be caused by another component rather than worn agitator dogs. Explore more about why your washing machine stops mid cycle and how to fix it.
Disconnect the washer from the power supply and gather the necessary tools before replacing the agitator dogs (Source: BlueStars Parts)
Step 2: Remove the fabric softener dispenser and dust cap
On many dual-action agitators, the center bolt sits under the fabric softener dispenser and dust cap. Pull the dispenser off the top of the agitator, then remove the inner cap carefully and set both pieces aside. Once these parts are removed, the center hold-down bolt should be visible.
On many Whirlpool-style dual-action agitators, remove the fabric softener dispenser and dust cap first (Source: BlueStars Parts)
Step 3: Remove the center hold-down bolt
Use a 7/16-inch socket and ratchet to loosen the center hold-down bolt. Turn it counterclockwise, remove it completely, and place it in a small container to avoid losing it during the repair. After the bolt is removed, the agitator assembly should lift off the drive shaft without resistance.
Use a socket wrench to remove the center hold-down bolt securing the agitator assembly (Source: BlueStars Parts)
Step 4: Lift out and separate the agitator assembly
Lift the agitator assembly straight up, then separate the upper and lower sections according to your washer model. Before removing any internal parts, take a photo of the assembly to help you remember the correct orientation during reassembly. Look inside the upper agitator to find the cam assembly and inspect the old agitator dogs for rounded teeth, cracks, or heavy wear. This confirms whether the dogs need replacement.
Lift the agitator assembly out of the washer and separate the upper and lower sections for inspection (Source: BlueStars Parts)
Step 5: Replace the old agitator dogs inside the cam assembly
Remove the worn agitator dogs from the cam assembly and compare them with the new ones to confirm they match. Install each new dog in the same direction as the old parts, making sure they sit properly and move freely. If they are installed backward or not seated correctly, the agitator may still fail to ratchet.
Notice: Pay close attention to the installation direction, as installing the agitator dogs backward is one of the most common mistakes during this repair.
Install new agitator dogs in the correct orientation to restore proper one-way ratcheting motion (Source: BlueStars Parts)
Step 6: Reassemble and test the washer
Reassemble the agitator, reinstall it onto the drive shaft, and tighten the center bolt securely. Replace the dust cap and fabric softener dispenser, then plug the washer back in.
Before running a wash cycle, rotate the upper agitator by hand to verify the repair. It should move freely in one direction and resist movement in the opposite direction. If the agitator behaves as expected, run a short wash cycle to confirm the repair. The upper agitator should ratchet properly, helping clothes circulate through the water more effectively.
Reassemble the agitator and run a test cycle to confirm the new agitator dogs are working properly (Source: BlueStars Parts)
5. Should you replace only agitator dogs or the full agitator repair kit?
Once the agitator is open, check more than just the agitator dogs. The dogs are the most common wear item, but the cam, bearing, and retainer can also wear out. The table below can help you choose the right repair based on the condition of the agitator dogs and related parts.
|
Replace Only the Agitator Dogs |
Replace the Full Agitator Repair Kit |
|---|---|
|
Agitator dogs are worn, rounded, cracked, or broken, but the rest of the assembly is in good condition. |
Agitator dogs and the cam assembly are both worn or damaged. |
|
Cam assembly, bearing, and retainer are intact with no cracks or excessive wear. |
The bearing or retainer is cracked, loose, or excessively worn. |
|
The washer has only recently started losing agitation performance. |
The washer is older or has had repeated agitator problems. |
If multiple agitator components need replacement, BlueStars Parts also offers the 285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit, which includes one medium cam, four directional agitator dogs, one bearing, and one retainer. Replacing all worn components together can provide a more complete and longer-lasting repair.
285811 Medium Cam Agitator Repair Kit (Source: BlueStars Parts)
6. FAQs about replacing agitator dogs
6.1. What size socket do I need to remove the agitator bolt?
Most Whirlpool, Kenmore, and many compatible top-load washers use a 7/16-inch socket to remove the center agitator bolt. Since some models may use a different size, always check your owner's manual or verify your washer model before starting the repair.
6.2. What do worn agitator dogs sound like?
Worn agitator dogs often produce a clicking, slipping, or ratcheting sound as the upper agitator changes direction. You may also notice the upper agitator spinning freely by hand and reduced washing performance. These symptoms usually indicate that the agitator dogs can no longer engage the cam assembly properly.
6.3. Can I replace agitator dogs myself?
Replacing agitator dogs is a beginner-friendly repair that typically takes 30 - 60 minutes with basic hand tools. As long as you disconnect the power and install the new agitator dogs correctly, most homeowners can complete the repair without professional assistance.
6.4. Why does my upper agitator spin both ways?
If the upper agitator spins freely in both directions, the agitator dogs are likely worn and can no longer grip the cam assembly. This is one of the most common signs that the agitator dogs need replacement. However, if replacing the dogs does not solve the problem, inspect the cam assembly for wear or damage.
6.5. Can worn agitator dogs damage my washer?
Worn agitator dogs typically will not damage the washer itself, but they can reduce agitation performance and prevent clothes from circulating properly during the wash cycle. Replacing them promptly can help restore normal washing performance and reduce unnecessary wear on related agitator components.
Learning how to replace agitator dogs is a practical DIY repair that can significantly improve your washer's cleaning performance without replacing the entire agitator assembly. If inspection confirms that replacement is needed, always choose compatible parts for your specific washer model to ensure a reliable repair and long-lasting performance. For reliable replacement parts and easy maintenance solutions, explore BlueStars Parts today.
Contact information:
8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
Website: https://bluestarsparts.com/
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