What does Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To mean?

Basket won't spin, grinds during cycle, or only agitates? A worn splutch (drive clutch assembly) won't shift between wash and spin modes.

How do I fix Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To?

Work through the step-by-step fix below. Start with the quick reset and the most common cause, then check the specific part this guide points to. Most fixes need only basic hand tools and the right replacement part.

Can I keep using my Whirlpool appliance with this error showing?

Usually not. Whirlpool appliances show this error when a part or safety circuit is out of range, so running it can stop the cycle or make the problem worse. Diagnose and clear the error before normal use.

What part is most commonly replaced for Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To?

The parts that most often fix Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To are listed in the parts section of this guide. Match the part to your exact model and serial number before you buy.

Is Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Many fixes are DIY-friendly with basic tools, such as door switches, drain pumps, water inlet valves, thermostats, heating elements, and filters. Sealed-system, refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage work should go to a licensed technician for safety.

Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement - Signs & How-To

Whirlpool Washer Splutch Replacement — What This Part Does

The splutch (drive clutch assembly) shifts the washer between wash and spin cycles by working with the mode shift actuator to operate the washplate and inner basket. It’s a mechanical cam-and-pulley system that engages different drive components depending on the cycle phase. Over time the spring, cam ring, basket drive gear, pulley, and housing wear from normal friction, especially in machines that handle heavy or frequent loads. When the splutch can’t shift correctly the washer may fail to spin, agitate poorly, or make grinding and clicking noises from the base.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Basket won’t spin or spins very poorly The washer agitates normally but the drum doesn’t spin at all or barely spins during the spin cycle, leaving clothes soaked.
Grinding or clicking noise from the base You hear scraping, grinding, or repeated clicking sounds coming from underneath the machine during operation.
Washer only agitates but never spins The washplate moves during the wash portion but the machine never shifts into spin mode, so clothes stay wet.
Abnormal agitation or no agitation at all The drum won’t agitate or moves erratically because the splutch can’t engage the washplate drive.
Visible wear or broken tabs on the assembly When you inspect the splutch you see cracked housing, broken tabs, a damaged spring, or worn teeth on the cam ring or basket drive gear.
Mode shift actuator not engaging properly The actuator pin isn’t moving the cam ring correctly, which can mean the splutch is worn or the actuator itself is failing.

How to Replace It

Unplug the washer and shut off the water supply valves before starting any work.
Tip the washer forward so you can access the bottom and remove the lower belt cover panel.
Use a 13 mm socket to loosen and remove the drive pulley nut, then slide off the drive belt and remove the pulley.
Pull out the old splutch assembly (spring, housing, cam ring, basket drive gear, pulley, and nut) and inspect each piece for cracks, broken tabs, a damaged spring, or worn gear teeth.
Install the new splutch kit in reverse order, placing the basket drive gear, cam ring, housing, spring, pulley, and nut back onto the drive shaft.
Tighten the pulley nut with the 13 mm socket, then reinstall the drive belt and lower belt cover.
Check that the mode shift actuator pin engages the cam ring correctly and that the assembly can shift smoothly.
Set the washer upright, plug it in, turn on the water, and run a test cycle to confirm the washer agitates and spins properly.
Listen for any grinding or clicking and verify the basket reaches full spin speed without hesitation.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Whirlpool Drive Clutch (Splutch) Kit W10721967	Amazon \| Six-piece kit (spring, housing, cam ring, basket drive gear, pulley, and nut). Check your washer’s model and serial plate (usually inside the door or on the back) to confirm fitment. Kit also replaces part numbers W10006352, W10006353, W10006354, W10006356, W10006382, W10315818, W10326374, W10536113, and W10721967VP.

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

When to Call a Pro

If you’re not comfortable tipping the washer and working on drive components from underneath, call a technician. If you replace the splutch and the basket still won’t spin or you still hear grinding, the mode shift actuator or transmission may also be faulty and will need professional diagnosis. Any time you see evidence that the actuator is not moving the cam ring correctly, have a pro inspect the actuator and related linkage before replacing more parts.