Diagnosing Transmission Problems

Listed below are most of the service complaints which would normally be caused by a malfunctioning component of the transmission assembly.

Oil Leaks

Oil leaks can be caused by faulty seals, gaskets, or a loose fitting stud.

Slow Spin Speed

Slow spin speed can be caused by a binding tub seal and/or bearing, brake rotor assembly not disengaging properly, a slipping clutch spring, or an off balance clothes load. The test that follows can be used to isolate the problem.

TORQUE TESTING:

A quick test of the efficiency of the spin operation components can be made by placing a 3 1/2 pound weight, such as a bag of sand, in the washer basket and starting the machine in the spring cycle. If the basket appears to reach full spin with the weight, the machine compo- nents are performing as intended. If the basket does not attain full spin speed, the torque test procedures as outlined in the following paragraphs should be per- formed to determine the problem.

The torque available to drive the spin basket is determined by the amount of drag or resistance presented by the tub seal and spin bearing, deducted from the input torque imparted to the transmission housing assembly by the clutch assembly.

The Following Torque Tests Will Allow a Problem in the Spin Drive Train to be Pinpointed:

NOTE: Before starting these tests, the washer should be operated in the agita- tion cycle with hot water for about two

(2)minutes, and then for two (2) min- utes in a spin cycle. This warms up the transmission oil and the spin drive train components.

Available Torque

Place a 1/2 inch socket and torque wrench on the agitator retaining bolt.

Depress the safety spin switch to allow the washer to operate in the spin cycle, then while reading the torque allow the wrench to turn slowly (about 6 R.P.M.) through a complete 360 degree cycle. The reading should be between 18 and 25 inch pounds throughout the complete 360 degree rotation of the wrench.

16023083	SECTION 6. TRANSMISSION AND RELATED COMPONENTS 6-13
	© 2004 Maytag Services