Remove Agitator from GE Washer, An agitator is an essential part that any top-loading washing machine cannot do without as it is used to “stir” or “agitate” clothes being washed. To maintain and repair it, you need to remove it when it is not working properly.
Agitators are attached in different ways as per the washer model. Therefore, it is paramount to know how to correctly remove it to avoid severe damage and incurring an expensive repair.
In this write-down, we shall focus on how to remove the agitator from the GE washer. So, without further ado, let’s get into the details.
Table of Contents
What is Agitator?
It is a screw/drill-like element placed in the center of the washing machine drum responsible for stirring clothes in the water-filled drum. In a spin cycle, the agitator locks into place, thus moving cyclically with the drum. It is also referred to as “stir.”
It spins in the water, allowing the detergent to reach the garments
When to Uninstall GE Agitator
If the agitator malfunctions, it results in many problems that may lead to costly repairs. Hence, it is best to remove it once you detect some slow spinning that indicates the need to be removed or replaced to take care of the underlying issue.
Somehow, cloth in a washer drum may get entangled at the base of the agitator. After other options fail to free it, you can try removing the agitator to retrieve your garment.
Due to repetitive use, the agitator or its parts can wear out, requiring replacement.
How To Remove Agitator From GE Washer
The process of uninstalling the agitator is typically simple, with less risk of danger. GE washer has two types of an agitator- the bolted and without bolt.
Removing a bolted agitator
Unplug Your Washing Machine
Accidents are possible even during ordinary acts of maintenance. Discovering your washer from the power supply is secure before you begin to prevent shock or injury if the button gets pressed accidentally.
It is important to note that washing machine injuries are rare, although they occur during routine use.
Remove The Agitator Cap.
Most GE washer models contain agitators that are held in place with a single metal bolt that is removed before removing the agitators.
To access the bolt, remove the cap at the top of the agitator by hand or use a screw to pry it. If the lid is glued down, it is very vulnerable and thus can bend during removal and, as a result, need a special glue from the manufacturer.
Unscrew the Bolt Securing the Agitator Down
After removing the lid, you will see that the agitator points towards the drum. Underneath the agitator’s barrels are a metal bolt and a screw holding the entire agitator housing in position.
Unscrew it to free the agitator and remove the unit for ease. If anything is hindering, try and rinse it with hot soapy water.
After completing the preceding guidelines, you may replace the agitators inside the drum. Then reinstall the agitator cap after opening the washer cap and fastening the bolt or screw.
Removing a Non-bolt Agitator
Three crucial considerations you must remember: First, disconnect the plug from the machine. Second, unlock the water chamber and pull the agitator straight up.
Open the Wash Compartment
Some old GE washing machines don’t require any tools to remove the agitator because any bolt does not secure it.
Nevertheless, in case of chemical buildup, the agitator might be stuck in place.
Pull Directly Up On the Agitator
Brace firmly against the washing machine and pull directly upward on the agitator. Apply some force, and the agitator shall come off its mounting, leaving the drive shift underneath.
It is best to avoid sideways twisting or jerking
Lubricate Unbolted Agitator
The old washing machines have a metal shaft under the agitator. Therefore, it needs occasional lubrication to maintain a smooth motion of the agitator. Take a small amount of Vaseline jelly and lubricate the shaft. Lubrication should be done twice a year.
Remove or replace the agitator from the washer.
In Case the Agitator Fails to Come Out/ Stuck
Many agitators’ designs and recent ones are not easily removed. Instead, they need special tools or techniques only available to trained personnel; thus, you can reach out for one. Nevertheless, try this hack:
Ensure the Agitator Isn’t Bolted Down
Over time, water, soap, and other washing substances can sometimes harden around the base of the agitator, “freezing” it in place and making it complex to remove. Fortunately, you can use a sturdy 2 x 4 plank as a simple lever.
However, if this option is used, the bolted agitator will break and further cause damage to the inner machinery of the washing machine. Therefore, it is extremely significant to ensure that the agitator is not bolted down before using this method.
Remove any screw holding it in place, as earlier discussed, and be sure that your washing machine model is safely removed before you try.
If you have doubts, call a mechanic to help you out. It is worth it
Cover The Agitator’s Bottom Half with Hot Water
Fill the washing unit with close to six inches or so of hot water, ensuring it covers the bottom of the agitator to loosen the buildup of soap and chemicals, making the removal a bit easier.
Fasten a Rope around the Agitator
Using a 2×4 plank about 5 ft. long, loop the rope ends over 2×4 and securely tie them in place in a way they won’t slip. Put a folded towel underneath it to protect your washer’s finish.
Pull the Agitator Off
With firm pressure on the end of the piece of wood outside the washer, pull the agitator straight upward as you slowly increase the downward force on the lever until you lift it out. If you can’t manage, it is okay to contact a mechanic to save yourself injuries and damage to your machine.
The agitator in the GE washing machine is of two types, and each has its removal procedure, as discussed above. If you realize there is a slower spinning of your clothes than it should, it might be the prime time for a new agitator.
Therefore, removing the agitator from the GE is pretty simple, translating to easy repair and maintenance. So, whenever you face an issue, troubleshoot it using the guidelines above to keep your agitator efficient and long-lasting.
