A Whirlpool top-load washer in Deerfield, OH was leaving clothes poorly cleaned after wash cycles. The customer reported that the top section of the agitator had come loose and wasn’t providing proper washing action. Our inspection revealed worn agitator dogs — the plastic components that engage the upper agitator during the wash cycle.
The Problem
The homeowner noticed their laundry wasn’t getting clean despite normal wash cycles. The top portion of the agitator moved freely and wasn’t creating the back-and-forth motion needed for effective cleaning. While the bottom agitator still functioned correctly, the loose upper section meant clothes weren’t being properly agitated during wash cycles.
Diagnosis
We removed the agitator cap and lifted out the upper agitator assembly to access the agitator dogs. These small plastic dogs were completely worn down, no longer able to grip and engage the upper agitator properly. When agitator dogs wear out, the top section spins freely instead of oscillating back and forth, which eliminates the washing action that moves clothes through the water and detergent.
The Repair
- Parts replaced: 80040 — agitator dog kit (set of plastic engagement dogs)
- Work performed: Removed agitator assembly, replaced worn dogs, reassembled and tested operation
- Result: Upper agitator now engages properly with strong back-and-forth washing action
Is It Worth Repairing?
This WTW57005WD is a solid mid-range Whirlpool model that typically runs 10-12 years with proper maintenance. Agitator dogs are a common wear item and replacing them restores full washing performance. Since the rest of the washer was functioning well, this repair makes excellent sense compared to replacement.
Maintenance Tips for Whirlpool Top-Load Washers
- Check agitator dogs annually — they’re inexpensive to replace before they fail completely
- Avoid overloading, which puts extra strain on agitator components and transmission
- Use HE detergent only — regular detergent creates excess suds that can damage the drive system
Appliance Repair in Deerfield, OH
Deerfield is in Portage County — an area we cover regularly from our base in Louisville, OH. We also serve Atwater, Ravenna, and Rootstown. Louisville Appliance Repair is owned and operated by Samuel Willhite, a master-certified technician with Bosch and Speed Queen factory authorizations. If your appliance needs service, schedule online or call (330) 693-9163. You can also find us on Google and read verified reviews from customers across Portage County and surrounding areas.
Louisville Appliance Repair serves Portage County and surrounding areas.
Schedule your repair online,
call (330) 693-9163,
or see our reviews on Google.