On Tue, 12 Sep 2006 09:08:31 -0500, "HeyBub"
wrote:

Pat wrote:
aspasia wrote:
My clothes washer is a Maytag, probably 10 years old at least, that
has never given me any trouble.

Today I put in some clothes and set the dials as usual. Suddenly
noticed things were too quiet. Opened washer. Water had filled to
desired level, but was not agitating.

Light was still on; electricity OK.

I moved the dials to all settings, checked everything, but no luck.

Went to my neighborhood appliance dealer. They said it was probably
the switch that indicates "lid closed". Sometimes it sticks, or..?
Suggested I bang the lid down hard a few times, and/or insert knife
blade to push switch in. Did all that. No luck.

What else could be wrong? Appreciate any suggestions.
Need to decide whether it's worth paying for a service call, or get a
new washer (not a happy alternative; $$$ situation is bleak).

Thanks!


Aspasia.

Sounds like your washer is agitating to me -- it's just agitating the
wrong thing.

Could be any number of things but the switch is a good starting point
and fairly cheap. It's also a great project to do yourself because
it's only 2 screws.

Go to the appliance store and get a new switch and have them show you
how to open the lid on the washer. It's easy but might require a flat
screwdriver (which you probably have already). Unplug the washer.
Open the lid. Make sure the washer is unplugged. Remove the screws.
Will probably take a #2 Phillips screwdriver (you probably have one
already). Again make sure the washer is unplugged. Pull off the two
wires. Put in the new switch. Reconnect the wires. Lower the top.
Give it a good pop to close it. Then plug it in and see if it works.

If so, you'll say, "wow, that was easy". Then you'll say, "wow, I
just saved $75 for a service call".

Switch $9.99
Phillips screwdriver $2.99
Flat screwdriver $1.99
Doing it yourself and having a smile you can't wipe off: Priceless.

Save $9.99 by by-passing the switch. Don't you want your kids to have the
same opportunities you had?

Thanks to all for great suggestions.

I have low skills, and a damaged dominant hand, but can probably get
the lid off; I see where it fits into two depressions on the sides.

1. Once it's off, will I see the wires leading into the switch
underneath?

2. HeyBub, how would I bypass the switch?


Aspasia