how do i replace a dog agit on a kenmore washing machine?

dual action agitator ratchet ‘dogs’, kit # 285770

Tools needed: Screwdriver, 3/8" drive ratchet wrench, 7/16" socket (older models), 3/8" drive to 1/2" adapter (newer models), long 3/8" drive extension, small amt liquid detergent

1) Pry the agitator cap off by inserting a screwdriver into the cap’s notch

2) Pull the inner cap (if present) off – most Whirlpool machines use this inner cap, with a handle, to gain access to the center bolt

3) Remove the bolt in the center of the agitator

(Earlier models used a 7/16" hex-head steel bolt)
(Recent models use a 1/2" square drive plastic nut – use a 3/8" X 1/2" ratchet adapter)

4) On older models, grasp the bottom portion of the agitator and pull the entire ass’y off.

(Recent models allow just the top portion’s removal to access these ‘dogs’)

5) Older models – place the agitator on the floor, and, standing carefully on the bottom portion, pull the top half off. Turn it over, and the dogs will be accessible for replacement.

6) Newer model dogs can be replaced once the ratchet ass’y is removed. There are several versions currently in use, but most can be replaced without removing the bottom agitator half. All‘4-dog’versions use the 285770 kit, regardless of the cam ass’y style. (Older agitators, rarely seen now, used a pair of 2 larger dogs, which are a different part number)

7) On older versions, be careful to align the two tabs when inserting the upper ass’y back onto the agitator bottom half. When these are aligned, they will friction-fit the two halves together, making it easier to reinstall the ass’y. Handle it only by the bottom half to prevent pulling the top half off when reinstalling.

8) Lightly lubricate the agitator cap’s rubber gasket using a bit of dishwasher detergent, and push it back into place. (On the Whirlpools with an inner cap, lube that cap’s o-ring too – makes it easier to snap into place)

9) Reach around and pat yourself on the back! You just saved at least $75.00!

Frank Lombardo
January 2009