How do I fix Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To?

The most frequently replaced parts for Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To

Q: What does Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To mean?

Top agitator slips or spins freely while the bottom moves. Worn agitator dogs cause weak wash action. Replacing the agitator repair kit restores one-way ratcheting and proper clothes turnover.

Kenmore Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement — What This Part Does

The agitator dogs are directional cogs inside the upper agitator cam assembly that let the top agitator rotate in one direction and slip in the other. During the wash cycle, these cogs grab and drive the upper agitator to turn clothes over aggressively. The bottom agitator spins continuously, but the dogs allow the top section to ratchet and move laundry through the water.

Over time the plastic dogs wear down or round off from normal use. When they fail, the top agitator loses its one-way drive action and either slips constantly or barely moves. Clothes don’t get turned over properly, so the wash becomes less effective. A worn cam assembly, damaged thrust washer, or failed bearing inside the repair kit can also cause the same slipping symptoms.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Top agitator spins freely or slips in both directions The upper agitator section no longer ratchets and instead spins loosely or does not grab during the wash cycle.
Bottom agitator moves but top portion barely moves The lower agitator spins normally while the upper section stays mostly stationary or only wobbles slightly.
Clothes stay bunched at the top of the basket Without the top agitator turning over laundry, clothes remain tangled or sit on top instead of moving through the water.
Weak or ineffective wash action The washer completes cycles but clothes come out poorly cleaned because the agitator does not turn them aggressively.
Visible rounded or broken cogs inside the agitator When you remove the upper agitator and inspect the dogs, you see worn-down plastic tabs or missing pieces in the cam assembly.
Top agitator lifts off easily without resistance A worn thrust washer or bearing inside the kit can let the upper agitator feel loose or come off with minimal force.

How to Replace It

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet and turn off the water supply valves before starting any work.
Remove the fabric softener dispenser or agitator cap from the top of the agitator by pulling straight up or twisting counterclockwise, depending on your model.
Hold the agitator steady and use a socket wrench with a 7/16-inch socket to remove the agitator bolt at the center (some models may require a 1/2-inch square extension instead).
Lift the upper agitator assembly straight up and off the lower agitator base, pulling firmly if it is stuck from detergent buildup.
Turn the upper agitator upside down and locate the cam assembly with the old agitator dogs or directional cogs inside the grooves.
Remove the worn dogs, cam, bearing, thrust spacer, inner cap seal, and washer from the upper agitator, noting the orientation and order of each part.
Install the new agitator dogs into the cam grooves in the same orientation as the old ones, then reassemble the cam bearing, thrust spacer, seal, and washer into the upper agitator housing.
Slide the rebuilt upper agitator back onto the lower agitator base, aligning the tabs and slots so the assembly snaps fully into place and sits flush.
Reinstall the agitator bolt with its rubber washer or gasket, tighten firmly while holding the agitator, then snap the cap or softener dispenser back on top.
Restore power and water, then run a small test load to confirm the top agitator now ratchets in one direction and drives clothes properly during the wash cycle.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Agitator repair kit (includes cam assembly, 4 directional cogs/dogs, bearing, thrust spacer, inner cap seal, and washer)	Amazon \| Check your washer’s model and serial number on the plate inside the door or on the back panel to find the correct Kenmore or Whirlpool agitator repair kit part number for your machine.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

If the top agitator still slips or does not move after you replace the dogs and cam assembly, the problem is likely deeper inside the agitator base or transmission. A tech can inspect the lower agitator drive block, splines, and transmission components that require disassembly of the entire basket and tub. Also call a pro if the agitator bolt is stripped, cross-threaded, or stuck and you cannot remove it without damaging the shaft.