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

The most frequently replaced parts for Maytag 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 Maytag 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.

Maytag Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement - Signs & How-To

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

Upper agitator slips or spins freely instead of ratcheting during wash. Replacing worn agitator dogs and cam restores one-way drive action.

Maytag Washer Agitator Dogs Replacement — What This Part Does

The agitator dogs are small plastic directional cogs inside the upper agitator cam assembly. They let the top half of the agitator drive in one direction and freewheel in the other, creating the back-and-forth ratcheting motion that moves clothes through the wash water. Over time, normal wear rounds off the teeth on these plastic dogs, and they can no longer grip the cam properly.

When the dogs wear out, the upper agitator loses its one-way drive function. You will see the top section spin loosely or move in both directions instead of indexing correctly. The lower agitator may still turn, but without the upper section working, clothes do not get the full agitation needed. This is a purely mechanical failure, not a code-based fault. Replacing the agitator dogs, cam, and retainer ring restores proper ratcheting action.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Upper agitator slips or spins freely The top half of the agitator moves in both directions or does not move at all, while the lower section still turns.
No ratcheting sound during wash You do not hear the normal clicking or indexing noise from the agitator when the washer is running.
Clothes are not agitating properly Laundry sits in one spot or does not move through the water, even though the lower agitator is spinning.
Top agitator wobbles or rocks The upper section feels loose or unstable when you manually push it back and forth.
Grinding or clicking noise under the agitator cap Worn dogs can create a grinding or rapid clicking sound as they slip inside the cam assembly.
Visible cracks or rounded teeth on old dogs If you remove the upper agitator and inspect the dogs, you will see broken pieces or smooth, worn-down teeth.

How to Replace It

Unplug the washer from the wall outlet and turn off the water supply valves before you begin any work.
Remove the fabric softener dispenser or decorative cap from the top of the agitator by pulling it straight up.
Pry off the dust cap in the center of the agitator if your model has one, exposing the hold-down bolt.
Use a 7/16-inch socket and ratchet to remove the agitator bolt holding the upper section in place.
Lift the upper agitator assembly straight up and off the lower agitator spline.
Remove the agitator cam and the plastic bearing or retainer ring from inside the upper agitator housing, then pull out the old agitator dogs and inspect them for wear.
Install the new agitator dogs in the cam pocket, making sure the teeth face the correct direction for one-way engagement, then reassemble the bearing ring and cam.
Slide the upper agitator back onto the lower agitator spline, thread in the hold-down bolt, and tighten it snugly with the 7/16-inch socket.
Replace the dust cap and fabric softener dispenser, plug in the washer, turn on the water, and run a short test cycle to confirm the upper agitator now ratchets and indexes correctly.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Agitator dog kit or agitator repair kit	Amazon \| Common kit part numbers include 80040 (dogs only) and 285811 or 3109 (full cam and dog repair kit). Check your washer model and serial number plate on the washer rim or lid to confirm the correct kit for your model.

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

When to Call a Pro

If you are uncomfortable working inside the agitator assembly or if the lower agitator also does not turn, call a technician. A non-turning lower agitator can point to a worn drive block, broken drive coupler, or transmission failure, which requires deeper disassembly and different parts. If you replace the dogs and cam but the upper agitator still slips, the agitator spline or lower cam surface may be worn, and a pro can diagnose whether you need a full agitator replacement or additional drive components.